Abstract: This invention relates to a method for motivating cooperation of youthful patients during an oral examination and to an apparatus with which this can be achieved. The apparatus is an improved tongue depressor that bears graphical images printed directly onto, and covering the entirety of, one or more surfaces using non-toxic inks. The improved tongue depressor comprises a thin, flat non-edible stick with a longitudinal axis made of a non-toxic material such as wood. A doctor can use the improved tongue depressor to ease the fears of young patients by allowing patients to select favorite images. The patient's choice of image gives the doctor information from which the doctor can engage the patient in conversation, and to thereby redirect the patient's attention while completing an oral examination. By providing the patient with the improved tongue depressor of his or her choosing, the patient is further motivated to cooperate during the examination.

Abstract: A tongue depressor that bears vivid graphical images and/or corporate logos and advertising messages printed directly onto, and covering the entirety of, one or more surfaces using non-toxic, U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved colored inks (i.e., inks comprised of FD&C color dyes), so as to encourage patients' cooperation during a medical practitioner's oral examination. The device comprises a thin, flat non-edible stick with a longitudinal axis made of a nontoxic material such as wood. The stick bears colorful images and/or messages derived from the application of FDA-approved colored inks directly onto one or more of the stick's surfaces by way of screen printing or other printing method.