Audiology Services
Our staff of licensed and certified audiologists provide the following services:
• Comprehensive hearing evaluations using routine audiometry and otoacoustic emissions (OAE) to objectively measure the inner ear's response to sound waves
• Dispensing, programming, and repairing of hearing aids
• Testing and diagnosis of balance/dizziness disorders using videonystagmography (VNG) to assess the strength of the balance system
• Take ear impressions to create custom ear plugs for swimming and/or noise protection
For information about hearing aids, please click here.
Types of hearing aids:
There are several different types of hearing aids available. Our audiologists will work with you to find the best option for you based on your audiologic needs, cosmetic concerns, and budget.
Behind the Ear/Receiver in the Ear (BTE/RITE) Hearing Aids
This hearing aid fits discreetly behind the ear and is coupled to the ear via a tube (which is smaller with the RITE style). The part inserted into the ear canal is either a small open dome or a traditional earmold made from acrylic or silicone. Earmolds are available in a variety of styles and colors suitable for any degree of loss or type of hearing instrument. Bluetooth® connectivity is available with this type of hearing aid.*
In the Ear (ITE)
This hearing aid fits discreetly in the ear. It can be used to fit most any hearing loss from mild to severe, and is easy to use with moderately sized controls and battery. Bluetooth® connectivity is available with this type of hearing aid.*
In the Canal (ITC)
This hearing aid is roughly 1/3 the size of ITE aids and are more cosmetically appealing due to the reduced size. It can be used to fit mild to moderately severe hearing losses, but requires greater dexterity to manipulate the smaller controls and battery. Some options are limited due to the small size of the aid. Bluetooth® connectivity is available with this type of hearing aid.*
Completely in the Canal (CIC)
CIC hearing aids are extremely small and are virtually unseen in the ear canal, depending on ear canal size. They can be used to fit many hearing losses, but generally are not used for severe to profound cases. They require good dexterity in order to insert the hearing aid and batteries. Some ear canal shapes or sizes may preclude fitting with a CIC instrument. Options are limited due to the small size of the aid.
*Bluetooth® technology can be used to route phone calls through the hearing aids via a cell or landline, as well as stream music from an MP3 player or sound from a television. It is also safer since the user can answer the phone without getting up and can follow Maryland's law for handsfree device use while driving. This is a popular option for younger users and older users alike.
For more information, please visit the links on the top right-hand side of the page.
To schedule an appointment, please call at 410-356-2626 (Owings Mills), 410-876-9300 (Westminster), or 410-391-1118 (Essex).