Hearing Aid Types

Dr. Spinuzza Hearing Exam

Everyone’s ears are unique. Not only does the cause, type, and degree of hearing loss vary, but every ear has its unique anatomy. Dramatic advances in technology have made it possible to tailor hearing aids to resolve a range of specific needs. Our Austin hearing aids are nearly invisible, yet retain powerful features and flexible options to help you get the most out of life.

Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aid

Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids condense all the electronic functions into a tiny case that rests behind the ear. A flexible tube connects the hearing aid to your custom-made earmold which is comfortably placed in your ear canal. The BTE style of hearing aid is the most reliable hearing aid type and usually offers the most circuit options and capabilities. They also have more power than other hearing aids in Austin. BTE hearing aids are often chosen for young children for safety reasons, and to allow for growth.

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Open fit behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aid

Just like the traditional BTE, a small plastic case rests behind the ear, and a very fine, clear tube runs into the ear canal. Inside the ear canal, a small, soft silicone dome or a custom mold tip holds the tube in place. These lightweight open fit BTE hearing aids offer aesthetic and performance advantages and are typically used by adults.

CROS/BiCROS hearing aid

CROS and BiCROS hearing aids are strictly for those with significant hearing loss in only one ear. These hearing aids use a microphone on the device worn in the ear and delivers sound to the functioning ear either via a wire or wirelessly. As a result, there is a more natural balance of hearing in the two ears.

In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aid

All parts of the ITE hearing aid are contained in a custom-made, skin-toned shell that fills the outer part of the inner ear. These hearing aids are larger than canal aids, and for some people, may be easier to handle than smaller aids. Depending on the model, the ITE hearing aids may have many circuit options and capabilities, as well as volume buttons.

In-the-canal (ITC) and completely-in-the-canal (CIC) hearing aids

These aids are contained in a custom-made, tiny case that fits partially or completely into the ear canal. These are the smallest hearing aids available and offer some cosmetic and listening advantages. Circuits, capabilities, and button options are available, depending on the model and size.

Receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aid

These hearing aids are similar to the BTE hearing aids with one small difference: the speaker of the hearing aid is placed inside the ear canal, and a thin electrical wire replaces the plastic acoustic tube of the BTE. The speaker inside of the ear canal may have a small, soft silicone dome, or a custom mold tip to hold the speaker in place.

These hearing aids are the most popular and are usually smaller and more discreet than standard BTE models. The RIC hearing aids are very reliable and require little to no maintenance. Depending on the RIC model and size, they may have as many circuit options and capabilities as a standard BTE.

Which hearing aid is perfect for you?

Schedule a consultation to discover the best hearing aid for you. Our highly-credentialed audiologist, Dr. Spinuzza, is specially trained to meet your individual needs. Our state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment backed by Dr. Spinuzza’s physician experience and medically-sound solutions help ensure you achieve the optimal results in increasing your ability to hear clearly.

Rest assured we can provide a customized hearing device plan that will work best for your hearing loss, lifestyle, and budget. Whether you are searching for a good, basic hearing aid or the latest speech processing technology with Bluetooth connectivity, Dr. Spinuzza will work with you to ensure that you are satisfied with your new hearing device. Remember, all of our hearing aids come with a risk-free 30-day trial period. So contact us today and schedule a consultation to get some of the best hearing aids Austin has to offer.

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