Oral Cavity - Clinical Connections

What swallowing difficulty may result from reduced labial closure?

Anterior spillage of food or liquid.

What swallowing difficulty may result from reduced buccal function?

Food pocketing in the lateral sulci.

What swallowing difficulty may result from reduced tongue coordination?

Difficulty manipulating, organizing, or controlling the bolus.

What swallowing difficulty may result from reduced tongue strength or movement?

Inefficient bolus transport and oral residue.

What swallowing difficulty may result from impaired mastication?

Poorly prepared or inadequately chewed bolus.

What swallowing difficulty may result from reduced velopharyngeal closure?

Nasal regurgitation during swallowing.

How might xerostomia affect swallowing?

Can make bolus formation, lubrication, and oral transport more difficult.

What is the difference between anterior spillage and oral pocketing?

Anterior spillage is bolus escape through the lips; pocketing is material collecting in spaces such as the lateral sulci.

What is oral residue?

Bolus material remaining in the oral cavity after attempted oral clearance.

What is premature posterior bolus loss?

Bolus material entering the pharynx before the intended swallow, potentially reflecting impaired oral containment.