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On The Ear (OTE)
 
The technology of the On-The-Ear (OTE) hearing aid allows for a comfortable “open fit” that features either an off-the-shelf “open” ear bud which conforms to the ear for an instant and secure fit, or a custom fit ear mold that is less “open” but specifically contoured to the user’s ear.   The digital processing part of the aid sits “on-the-ear” and is connected to the ear bud or ear mold, which is inside the earl, by micro-thin, nearly invisible transparent tubing.  OTE hearing aids are appropriate for mild to moderate high-frequency hearing loss.
 
Benefits

• Comfortable "open" ear bud promotes airflow and conforms for secure fit
• Appropriate for mild to moderate hearing loss
• Digital processing technology
• Micro-thin tubing and small attractive case

On The Ear (OTE) With Receiver In-The-Canal Technology

Essentially the same features as the OTE described above with the added advantage of a small speaker in the ear canal. These aids are appropriate for all degrees of hearing loss from mild to severe.

Completely In The Canal (CIC)
 
Completely-In-The-Canal (CIC) hearing aids are the smallest and most discreet aids available.  The hearing aid is housed in a custom molded tiny shell that fits comfortably and completely into the ear canal and delivers sound directly to the ear. The result is improved sound quality and the reduction of potential feedback.  The device is removed from the ear canal by pulling a tiny, nearly invisible cord.  The CIC aids are popular for their aesthetic appeal, but the physiology of some people’s ears as well as the type and magnitude of hearing loss may make the CIC style unsuitable or inappropriate.  While these miniature instruments are both powerful and cosmetically appealing, some functional features, such as manual volume control, are not available simply because the devices are so small.
 
Benefits

• Nearly invisible for complete discretion
• Appropriate for mild to moderate hearing loss
• Recommended exclusively for adults
• Digital processing technology

 
 
In The Canal (ITC)
 
In-The-Canal (ITC) hearing aids are custom designed to fit in the ear canal.  The ITC aids are discreet, yet still slightly visible within the outer ear.  Although the ITC aids can barely be seen they are very easy to operate, even if the user has less than optimal manual dexterity.  The hearing device is housed within a custom-made shell that fits comfortably inside each ear canal and delivers sound directly to the ear.  The somewhat larger overall size of the ITC aids (when compared to the CIC aids) allows for the application of technology the will address a somewhat greater hearing loss.
 
Benefits

• A relatively small and discreet size
• Appropriate for mild to mildly severe hearing loss
• Variety of features and small size
• Digital Process technology

 
 
In The Ear (ITE)
 
The In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aid is housed within a custom-made shell that fits comfortably inside the outer portion of the ear.  The ITE, like the CIC and ITC delivers sound directly to the ear.  The ITE tends to be larger than the ITC hearing aid and can accommodate the necessary technology to overcome a greater hearing loss.  Additionally, the size of the ITE provides for easy-to-use controls may be more appropriate for individuals with limited dexterity.
 
Benefits

• Easy to insert and adjust
• Appropriate for mild to severe hearing loss
• Custom-made shell fits snugly in ear
• Digital Process technology

 
 
Behind The Ear (BTE)
 
Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids come in a variety of sizes and styles. As a result, they can house a variety of circuit options and amplify sounds to a greater degree than most other styles. With the BTE hearing aid the processing unit is housed in a curved shell that sits behind the ear and sends sound via clear tubing to an earmold that has been custom molded to fit comfortably inside the outer ear area.  BTE hearing aids are extremely flexible for all types of hearing loss.
 
Benefits

• Easiest to adjust and maintain
• Appropriate for most types of hearing loss
• Secure fit with minimal passageway obstruction

Hearing aid technology is a rapidly advancing field.  Many of the technological advances and features found on the hearing aids that we can offer to our patients have been introduced over the past several years.  We are all individuals and each hearing loss is different.  When we recommend particular hearing aids for our patients we are directly influenced by the nature of the hearing loss as well as the personal likes and dislikes of the patient.  Fortunately, hearing aids are available in many different styles, sizes, colors and price ranges.  They also are available with a wide variety of features that can be tailored to fit your hearing needs.  With that in mind, Boston Hearing Services will work to the best of our ability to provide an optimal solution tailored to your hearing needs, your lifestyle and your personal cosmetic preferences.
 
The following is a review of some of the styles of hearing aids available today.

Boston Hearing Services Hearing Aids

Hear well, Live well

617-731-9988