Hearing Aid Styles
In-The-Canal (ITC) Hearing Aids
The ITC style provides a discreet, custom-fit solution that sits comfortably in the ear canal — offering natural sound quality and easy phone use for mild to moderately severe hearing loss.
In-The-Canal Function and Appearance
The in-the-canal (ITC) style of hearing aids is provided with a custom-made fit that only fills out the lower half of the external ear. These hearing aids are often unseen to someone directly facing the wearer. To ensure a comfortable perfect fit, a mold of each ear is taken to produce the shape of the hearing aid. When a smaller size hearing aid is preferred, the ITC is often chosen instead of the in-the-ear (ITE) style.
This style of hearing aid provides a more natural hearing experience for the user through its deep placement in the ear canal and venting. The ITC captures sound the way the ear naturally would — accurately identifying the direction from which sound is coming, translating into a more natural listening experience rather than sound that is too loud or muddled.
In-the-canal hearing aids are positioned in the bottom area of the outer ear bowl, making them easy to use and comfortable to wear. Since ITC hearing aids are a little bigger in size than the CIC or IIC styles, they can handle a larger range of hearing loss and have a longer battery life. This particular hearing aid may not work well for those with a narrow ear canal.
Key Features of the ITC Style
Discreet Fit
Usually cannot be seen when facing another person directly. The ITC sits in the lower half of the outer ear bowl, making it nearly invisible in most face-to-face interactions.
Natural Sound Direction
Resting deep in the ear canal, the ITC captures sound the way the ear naturally would — accurately identifying the direction sounds come from for a more natural hearing experience.
Longer Battery Life
Slightly larger than the CIC and IIC styles, the ITC accommodates a bigger battery for extended daily use — a practical advantage for active wearers.
Easy Phone Use
The ITC style allows easy use of both landline and mobile phones. Unlike some other styles, there is no need to hold the phone at an angle when you have it up to your ear.
Ready to Get ITC Hearing Aids?
Call us today at 866.842.2441 or set up an appointment online to learn more about the ITC style at a location near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does ITC stand for in hearing aids?
- ITC stands for In-The-Canal. It refers to a custom-made hearing aid that fits primarily in the ear canal, filling only the lower half of the outer ear bowl.
- How is an ITC different from a CIC or IIC?
- The ITC is slightly larger than the CIC (Completely-In-Canal) and IIC (Invisible-In-Canal) styles. This means it can handle a larger range of hearing loss and has a longer battery life, while still being very discreet.
- Who is the ITC style best suited for?
- ITC hearing aids are well suited for individuals with mild to moderately severe hearing loss who want a discreet device that is still easy to handle and insert.
- Is the ITC hearing aid custom fit?
- Yes. A mold of each ear is taken to produce a custom shape for the ITC hearing aid, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit unique to each wearer.
- Will the ITC work if I have a narrow ear canal?
- The ITC may not be appropriate for individuals with very narrow ear canals. Your hearing care professional at Livingston will evaluate your ear anatomy to recommend the best fit.
- Can I use a phone normally with an ITC hearing aid?
- Yes. One of the advantages of the ITC style is that it allows easy, natural use of both landline and mobile phones without needing to adjust the angle of the handset.
- How do I clean an ITC hearing aid?
- Wipe the device daily with a soft dry cloth. Use the cleaning tools provided by your hearing care professional to gently remove wax from the sound port. Avoid submerging the device in water.
- How do I get fitted for an ITC hearing aid?
- Contact Livingston Hearing Aid Center to schedule a free hearing evaluation. Our licensed professionals will take an ear impression and guide you to the best style and technology for your hearing needs.
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