When it’s time to select a new hearing aid, you will find that there are many types and styles from which to select. Although every style of device has its own advantages and disadvantages, behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids are one of the more popular options.If you’re thinking about investing in hearing aids for yourself or for a loved one, the facts in this article may help you decide whether a BTE hearing aid might be a sensible choice.Of the various types of hearing aids on the market, behind-the-ear designs are usually the easiest to identify. The very first thing you’ll recognize is a compact, curved plastic case that sits behind the ear and is attached to another section placed inside the ear. The hearing aid itself is housed in the case section of the device. The battery, the electronics, and many of the controls for operating the hearing aid are safeguarded by this casing. The part that sits inside the ear is called the ear mold. Ear molds are custom-made using the unique form of each wearer’s ears, which helps to ensure that they are comfortable to wear and that sound is transmitted effectively.There are a number of advantages associated with wearing a behind-the-ear hearing aid. The larger casing fits larger batteries, which can provide additional amplification and longer battery life. The larger size of the BTE also allows for more features, including directional microphones, telecoil and Bluetooth. On top of that, the larger casing makes BTE hearing aids easier to handle than more compact ones, which makes swapping batteries and cleaning the device less difficult for people with more limited dexterity and eyesight.In terms of drawbacks, the biggest criticism of BTE hearing aids is their appearance. It’s extremely tough to conceal the fact that you are wearing a hearing aid if you opt for a BTE. Users who are sensitive about the aesthetics can select cases that complement their skin coloration to help them blend in. Noise from wind can also be a problem with BTE hearing aids, though most of them now have hardware and software features available to reduce or eliminate this concern.If it sounds as though pros of BTE hearing aids outnumber the cons, you may have found the right to suit your needs. Consider talking to your audiologist to find out more.