Mastication, Deglution and Dysphagia

The process of chewing food, breaking it down into smaller pieces to aid in digestion.

The muscles responsible for chewing: masseter, temporalis, medial pterygoid, and lateral pterygoid. They work together to move the jaw up, down, and side to side.

The primary enzyme in saliva that begins the digestion of carbohydrates. It breaks down starch into simpler sugars.

The act of swallowing, moving food from the mouth through the esophagus to the stomach.

Difficulty in swallowing, which can be caused by various factors including neurological disorders, muscle weakness, or anatomical abnormalities.

A type of swallow that is triggered automatically, like when your mouth is dry.

A type of swallow that is initiated voluntarily, when you consciously decide to eat or drink.

The part of the brain that controls the complex process of swallowing.

The sensory receptors in the back of the throat that trigger the swallowing reflex.

The lips close to create pressure inside the mouth, helping push food towards the back of the throat.

The tongue forms a ball of food (bolus) and moves it back towards the throat.

The soft palate moves up to block the nasal passageway, preventing food from going up your nose.

A horseshoe-shaped bone that supports the tongue and helps lift the larynx during swallowing.

A leaf-shaped flap that protects the airway during swallowing by closing over it.

The vocal cords close to prevent any food from entering the airway.

A ring-shaped cartilage that relaxes to allow food to pass from the throat into the esophagus.

The three stages of swallowing: oral, pharyngeal, and esophageal.

The stage of swallowing where the food bolus moves from the back of the mouth into the pharynx.

The stage of swallowing where the food bolus travels down the esophagus to the stomach.

The reflex that initiates the swallowing process, triggered by receptors in the back of the mouth.

The opening between the vocal cords that is closed during swallowing to prevent food from entering the trachea.

A ring of muscle at the top of the esophagus that opens during swallowing to allow the food bolus to pass.

A muscular wave of contraction that moves the food bolus down the esophagus.

The nerve responsible for taste sensations from the anterior two-thirds of the tongue and motor control of facial muscles.

The nerve that provides motor control to the muscles involved in swallowing, including the pharyngeal constrictors and stylopharyngeus muscle.

The nerve that provides motor control to the muscles of the palate, pharynx, and larynx, and autonomic control to the esophagus.

A dental procedure used to remove plaque and calculus from teeth, utilizing powered instruments. Careful use is crucial for patients with dysphagia to prevent aspiration.

A dental tool that combines a scaler, explorer, and probe, used for plaque and calculus removal, and is commonly utilized in patients with dysphagia for its versatility.

The position where the patient lies on their back with their head elevated at a 30-45 degree angle. This is often used for patients with dysphagia to make swallowing easier and reduce aspiration risk.

Important oral care advice for patients with dysphagia, including techniques and frequency of brushing, flossing, and oral rinses, to facilitate effective oral hygiene and prevent complications.

A type of toothbrush designed to minimize aspiration risk by reducing the splashing of toothpaste and water. It incorporates a unique design that promotes a smooth, gentle brushing experience while minimizing the potential for fluid to enter the airway.

Using a rubber sheet to isolate a specific tooth or area of the mouth during a dental procedure. This barrier helps protect the patient's airway from saliva, water, debris, and materials used.

Utilizing a high-speed suction system to remove saliva, debris, and water during a dental procedure. This enhances visibility, improves the working environment, and reduces the risk of aspiration.

The act of withdrawing fluid or air from the mouth using a suction device, often during dental procedures. It ensures a clear field of vision, assists in maintaining a dry and sterile environment, and prevents the accumulation of saliva or debris.

A dental material that cures or hardens quickly, minimizing the time required for the procedure and allowing for faster completion. It is beneficial for patients with swallowing difficulties, reducing the duration of the procedure and minimizing discomfort.

A diet modification tailored to an individual's specific needs and preferences. This involves altering the texture, consistency, portion size, and frequency of meals to enhance swallowing safety and ease of consumption.

A strategy involving avoiding specific dental procedures that may be lengthy, complex, or pose a significant risk to patients experiencing swallowing difficulties. This approach helps ensure their safety and minimize complications.

A proactive approach that emphasizes measures taken to prevent swallowing difficulties and complications during dental procedures. This includes early intervention, risk assessment, and tailoring procedures to meet individual patient needs.