Navigating the extensive information and choices in the current market when considering or acquiring hearing aids can be quite daunting. In order to assist you in your quest for improved hearing, we have outlined the advantages and disadvantages associated with each style of hearing aid.
It’s crucial to bear in mind that not all styles are universally suitable for every individual. Your hearing professional may suggest one or more types of hearing aids, taking into account factors such as the degree of hearing loss, aesthetic preferences, lifestyle, specific needs, and budget considerations. Additionally, a wide range of colors and metallic finishes are available for the majority of BTE and RIC styles, allowing you to select options that complement your hair or skin tone.
Categories of hearing aids: custom and standard.
Custom Hearing Aids
Custom hearing aids are designed specifically for individual patients. The hearing aid is crafted to fit the unique shape of the individual’s ear, using earmold impressions. Baksruti Hearing Technologies pioneered and refined custom hearing aids, earning a reputation as the industry leader in this specialized category.
Standard Hearing Aids
Standard hearing aids, also known as “off-the-shelf” devices, can be fitted within the hearing professional’s office without the need for impressions or earmolds in most cases. Although the fitting and programming are personalized for each patient, the actual device itself may not require customization.
Styles and types: pros and cons
Invisible In-The-Canal (IIC)
This design is tailored to fit the individual ear canal more deeply than other styles. When worn, it remains entirely invisible*. The Invisible-in-Canal (IIC) style of hearing aids is intended to be taken out daily to promote optimal ear health and is most effective for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss
Advantage:
- Smallest and most discreet hearing aid style
- Completely invisible in most ears
- Positioning the hearing aid deep within the ear enhances the overall sound quality and the clarity of the wearer's own voice.
Disadvantage:
- Utilizes compact batteries, posing a challenge for individuals with dexterity issues when handling them
- Due to small battery size, batteries need to be changed more often
- The compact size of the device prevents the inclusion of controls, such as volume and memory functions.
Completely-In-Canal (CIC)
Advantage:
- Among the smallest and least visible style
Disadvantage:
- Relies on compact batteries, posing challenges for individuals with concerns about dexterity.
- Because of their petite battery size, they require more frequent changes compared to larger hearing aids.
In-The-Canal (ITC)
Advantage:
- Less visible in the ear than larger custom styles
- Unlike smaller custom hearing aids, it is possible for these to feature controls such as volume and memory settings.
Disadvantage:
- Using the controls (i.e., volume and memory) can be difficult for patients with poor dexterity
- Partially visible in the ear
In-The-Ear (ITE)
Advantage:
- Controls such as volume and memory, which may not fit on smaller hearing aids, can be incorporated.
- Easier to handle/manipulate
- Larger battery provides a longer battery life
Disadvantage:
- Might capture a higher amount of wind noise compared to smaller devices.
- More visible in the ear than smaller devices
Receiver-In-Canal (RIC)
Advantage:
- Due to the receiver not being enclosed within the device, RICs are generally smaller and more inconspicuous compared to BTEs.
- Provides a comfortable open-fit, enabling the user to experience the natural sound quality of their own voice.
Disadvantage:
- Susceptible to earwax and moisture clogging the speaker
Behind-The-Ear (BTE)
Advantage:
- Larger external controls, helpful for patients with dexterity problems
- Useful for children due to durability and ability to connect to assistive listening devices
- Can offer a longer battery life
- Less susceptible to damage by earwax or moisture
Disadvantage:
- Least discreet hearing aid style