FunDepressors are like ordinary tongue depressors in their composition (wood) and size (Junior). The key difference is the way young patients respond to FunDepressors - with anticipation and amusement instead of stress and fear. And as every doctor knows, a calm and cooperative patient makes for a faster, more manageable examination.

While ordinary tongue depressors are perceived by young patients as a threat, FunDepressors are immediately recognized as appealing and entertaining. And unlike ordinary depressors, FunDepressors give patients a positive memory about their visit, along with something to look forward to for their next one.

FunDepressors' fanciful designs and vivid colors minimize the unpleasantness young patients associate with oral examinations and medical professionals. They provide an entertaining distraction that allows doctors to conduct exams calmly and orderly and also serve as a means to enhance doctor-patient relationships.

FunDepressors are 100% safe. All inks used on FunDepressors are nontoxic and comply with U.S. Food and Drug Administration regulations. In fact, FunDepressor inks are the same as those used in common candies and foods. As an added safety measure, FunDepressors have been further certified for safety by an independent product testing laboratory.

FunDepressors are available in two forms: 50-piece Variety Packs and 200-piece Variety Jars.

While FunDepressors function just like ordinary tongue depressors, their colorful designs create new opportunities to calm patients and strengthen relationships. For best results, try the following field-tested suggestions:

Keep FunDepressors in a visible spot in your examination room as they will seize patients' curiosity and interest. Use this opportunity to discuss the impending procedures and the rewards enjoyed by cooperative patients.

Offer patients several different FunDepressor designs and let them choose the one to be used for the oral examination.

Let patients know that they can keep the FunDepressor if they remain calm and cooperative. You may prefer to give an unused FunDepressor as a giveaway reward.

Discuss the selected FunDepressor's theme or color with the patient during the exam (e.g.: What is your favorite basketball team?; is red your favorite color?; etc.)

Allow the patient to hold the FunDepressor before and after the exam.

Assure patients that they can choose (and keep) another FunDepressor at their next visit.

Nearly 150 original FunDepressor designs were tested on hundreds of boys and girls ranging in age from one year through the mid-teens. The most popular designs can be found in Variety Packs and Variety Jars.

Research indicates that FunDepressors have the greatest appeal and the most positive effect on patients ranging in age from approximately 12-months through the early teens.