Swallowing difficulty is called dysphagia. The word is from dys- meaning bad and phagia meaning eating. Normal swallowing requires harmonious coordination of many muscles, bones and nerves. Everything works together like a symphony orchestra. There are 3 consecutive swallowing phases and problems can occur in any one of them.

          The first phase prepares food for swallowing. It reduces food size and lubricates it with saliva. Saliva begins food digestion and assists food in passing through the throat and esophagus. The lips, cheeks, teeth and tongue break the food up and form a soft ball. Reduced amounts or poor quality saliva causes swallowing difficulty. Unfortunately, with age the quality and quantity of saliva decreases. Many medical conditions disturb saliva formation. Adding sauces to meals and avoiding sticky or dry foods can help.

          Swallowing difficulty can be caused by incompletely chewed food. Poor chewing can be due to bad or missing teeth, malpositioned teeth, poor fitting dentures or bad dental work. Eating smaller portions and thoroughly chewing food can help along with eating smaller more frequent meals. After chewing, the ball of food moves back into the throat. The tongue pushes up against the palate and squeezes the food into the throat. This triggers automatic responses in the throat and esophagus. Poor tongue function causes problems. Many patients with a tongue thrust, lowered tongue posture and TMJ problems have problems. Many TMJ patients have difficulty swallowing pills.

         Food allergies can cause throat tissues to swell resulting in swallowing problems. A diet diary is helpful finding food triggers. Problems can be worse if you eat while tired or stressed. Plan your meals, relax and enjoy. Eat slowly and in an upright seated position.The first step in diagnosing the cause is a detailed and careful interview. Treatment may involve several different health professionals including a knowlegdeable dentist. The dentists at the Atlanta Dental Group PC are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being. You are welcome to join our family of patients. If you are having swallowing difficulty and would like to consult with Dr. Padolsky, please call 404-874-7428 and make an appointment.