Tongue Depressor

The tongue depressor is usually a flat, thin instrument, often made of wood or plastic. It has a smooth, rounded end that is placed under the tongue to gently press it down, allowing the healthcare provider to examine the throat, tonsils, and other structures in the mouth. This is particularly useful for checking for signs of infection, inflammation, or other abnormalities. The 18cm measurement you provided likely refers to the length of the tongue depressor. Tongue depressors come in various sizes to accommodate different patients and examination needs.