| Phase |
Characteristics |
| Oral Preparatory |
Food in the oral cavity is manipulated, masticated, and mixed with saliva in preparation for swallowing. The back of the tongue controls the position of the food, preventing it from entering prematurely into the pharynx. |
| Oral (Propulsive) |
The tongue transfers the bolus of food from anterior to posterior aspects of the oral cavity and to the pharynx, triggering the pharyngeal swallow. |
| Pharyngeal |
Complex and coordinated movements of the tongue, pharyngeal musculature and structures propel the bolus into the esophagus, while protecting the airway. |
| Esophageal |
Coordinated contractions of the muscles of the esophagus move the bolus through the esophagus towards the stomach. |
