Bryant Concho Valley Hearing

Behind the ear (BTE)

Behind-the-ear aids have a plastic housing for the components which rests behind the ear. A clear plastic tube funnels amplified sound into an earmold in the ear canal. This model, though developed decades ago, can be every bit as sophisticated as smaller hearing aids. In fact, it can hold more circuitry and amplify sounds to a greater degree than in-the-ear types. BTE aids can be more durable than other types and a few are even waterproof.

In the ear (ITE)

In-the-ear (ITE) aids house components in a custom-formed earmold that fits within the outer portion of the ear. Its size and easy-to-use controls also may be helpful for those with limited manual dexterity.

In the Canal (ITC)

In-the-canal (ITC) aids are smaller still, with an earmold that fits down into the ear canal, and a smaller portion facing out into the outer ear. They are discreet, yet still visible within the outer ear.

Completely In the Canal (CIC)

The newest generation of hearing aids are those that fit completely in the canal (CIC). Barely visible — and then only if someone's peering into your ear — the only clue to their existence is the head of a tiny plastic line with which you place or remove the aid. CICs are popular for their aesthetic appeal, but the physiology of some individuals' ears (i.e., a very narrow canal) may make this style unsuitable for them.