Hearing Aid Types
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Custom Hearing Aids - In The Ear / In the Canal
In the canal hearing aids are available in rechargeable or battery form.
Custom rechargeable hearing aids, tend to be slightly larger in size compared to the battery alternative.
In the canal hearing aids that are non-rechargeable require 312 batteries.
For a full shell fit to the ear and longer battery life, In the ear (ITE) hearing aids require size 13 batteries.
Custom hearing aids also offer bluetooth connectivity, however this is subject to the shape of the ear and manufacturer chosen.
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Receiver In The Canal (RIC) Hearing Aids
Receiver in canal hearing aids are worn behind the ear and cover a wide array of hearing loss types.
These hearing aids tend to be more discreet compared to traditional behind the ear hearing aids (BTE), due to having a thinner wire and more sleek design.
Each hearing aid manufacturer offers an array of tips that fit within the ear, depending on hearing loss type, dexterity and comfort.
Most receiver in canal hearing aids are bluetooth compatible for phone calls via wireless connectivity.
They are available in rechargeable and battery form.
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Discreet Hearing Aids - Completely In Canal / Invisible In Canal
Completely in the canal hearing aids are custom made to fit the entrance of an ear canal.
They can also be made to be invisible hearing aids, for certain ear shapes.
Invisible in the canal (IIC) aids are the most discreet hearing aids available on the market.
Custom hearing aids are not suitable for all types of loss. For example, a client with a mild form of hearing loss, may feel blocked in the ear with this type of hearing aid.
Most completely in canal aids are non wireless due to the size of their components.