Hearing aids

There are 3 basic styles of hearing aids. Custom In-the Ear aids, Behind-the-ear and Receiver-In-the-Canal hearing aids.  There are variations on the three basic styles. Your hearing healthcare professional (audiologist or hearing instrument dispenser) will work with you to help you decide on the best style for you, based on your needs and desires.

The most common styles are listed below:

ITE: In-the-Ear units are also the largest of the custom made styles, filling your ear canal bowl.  In Estes Park, with the wind, I do not recommend these aids due to wind noise from the microphone location.

ITC: In-the-Canal units reduce the microphone exposure to wind noise.  These aids allow two microphones to be used on the faceplate, increasing speech understanding in noise.  

CIC: Completely-In-the-Canal units are the tiniest hearing aids made. They require a "removal string" due to their small size.  They use the natural noise reduction from the pinna (outer ear) to increase understanding in noise.  Realize the small size requires good dexterity to handle the batteries.  Some brands come with a remote control to increase your control of the volume adjustments and programs. 

BTE: Behind-The-Ear hearing aids are the most flexible hearing aids. All hearing losses can be fit with this style of hearing aid.  Today, these aids are small and discreet.  The newest style, "OPEN FIT" , is perfect for high frequency hearing losses, with normal low frequency hearing.  These aids are in stock at our office and can be dispensed the same day as your hearing test is completed. 


RIC: Receiver In-the-canal hearing aids have a wider and smoother frequency response than behind-the-ear aids.  They are generally very tiny and fit on top of your ear.  These aids work nicely for mild-to-moderately severe hearing losses.