Hearing Aids - The Science of Hearing

Hearing Aids

Technology

We work with hearing aid manufacturers from around the world. Working with as many providers as possible broadens the choices for our patients. This allows our Audiologists and Hearing Instrument Specialists to evaluate all types of technology for effectiveness and durability.

All of the hearing aids we recommend are Class 2 Medical Devices.

Styles of Hearing Aids

Open Fit RIC/Thin Tube

Typically a small behind the ear hearing aid that attaches to a very thin tube or wire that transmits sound into the ear. Most often non-occluding (don’t feel plugged up) which means they leave the ear relatively open for natural sound quality.

Designed for mild to moderate or high frequency hearing losses however more recently the design of these closed mold fittings can accommodate cases with severe hearing loss.

Behind the Ear (BTE)

Sitting behind the ear, this type of hearing aid is attached to a standard tube that transmits sound into the ear. BTE hearing aids are traditionally larger for more power, may use a larger battery, and in most cases, require a custom fit earmold.

The BTE benefits those with greater degrees of hearing loss and those who have difficulty with manual dexterity.

In the Ear (ITE)

These are custom fit devices that completely fill the concha portion of the ear. This style often has a larger battery with larger controls.

This type of hearing aid can be beneficial to those with more serious hearing losses or those who have difficulty with manual dexterity.

In the Canal – Half Shell (ITC)

In the Canal and Half Shell hearing aids look similar to the In the Ear models but cover half of the concha portion of the ear. This is a custom fit device that typically has a smaller battery and less room for options.

Completely in the Canal (CIC)

The entire unit fits into the ear canal, provided there is enough room. They use the smallest size battery and offer fewer options due to lack of space.

Invisible in the Canal (IIC)

This is the smallest custom fit hearing aid. It is similar to the CIC but is reduced in size for a deeper fit in the ear canal. This style does not fit every ear.

Hearing Instrument Accessories

Wireless TV

The TV box sends the sounds wirelessly to the user’s hearing aids. The sound is clear because it is corrected to fit the individual’s hearing loss.

This accessory is available for hearing aids with wireless/Bluetooth capability.

Remote Control

This allows the user to adjust the volume and change programs on their hearing aids.

This accessory is available for hearing aids with wireless capability.

Remote Microphone

This device takes the sound from the microphone and sends it wirelessly to the user’s hearing aids. It is very effective in the car, in restaurants and at meetings.

This accessory is available for hearing aids with wireless/Bluetooth capability.

Battery Charger

Many hearing aids have the option of rechargeable batteries. Modern rechargeables keep a charge for up to 20 hours.

This accessory is available for hearing aids with rechargeable batteries.

Phone App

All manufacturers offer Apps that allow the user to make and receive phone calls directly to their hearing aids. With voices amplified properly, phone conversations are much clearer. The Apps also allow the user to adjust the volume on their hearing aids, similar to a remote control. Apps are often updated to include new features such as remote assistance and more detailed sound adjustments.

Hearing Protection

Musician Earplugs

Musician Earplugs are designed to protect hearing while preserving all the subtleties and richness of music. Other earplugs, particularly foam, muffle sound so music and speech are not heard distinctly.

ER-9, ER-15 and ER-25 filters attenuate (reduces) sound pressure levels by 9, 15 or 25 decibels respectively. Musician Earplugs are custom made and filters are interchangeable.

Custom Molds for Work

Newscasters Mold — Custom design for a more comfortable and secure fit, while in front of the camera.

Pilot Molds — Custom made lucite shell for maximum comfort and security with headset.

Phone Headset — Designed as a lightweight mold that provides a secure comfortable fit for phone headsets.

Floatable Swimmer Earplugs and Earplugs for Sleeping

Floatable swimmer earplugs are custom made with a super soft hydrophobic silicone material and offer the best protection.

Earplugs for sleeping have a shallow design and are available in soft materials for extra comfort.

All earplugs are available in many colours.

Custom Earplugs for Noise

Custom made earplugs provide outstanding noise protection for a variety of recreational and occupational environments.

Available in many colours.

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