How Swallowing Actually Works: The Normal Swallowing Process Explained
- Donnetta Davis MS, CCC-SLP
- Aug 4
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 6
Ever wonder what really happens when we swallow? It seems simple—sip, swallow, done. But in reality, swallowing is a complex, beautifully coordinated process involving over 30 muscles and several nerves.
Understanding normal swallowing helps caregivers recognize when something isn’t working right — and why tools like The Breather or dysphagia cups may be necessary.
💡 The 4 Phases of Normal Swallowing
Here’s how swallowing works when everything goes right:
1. Oral Preparatory Phase
Chewing (mastication) and saliva mix food into a soft ball (bolus)
Tongue and cheeks keep food in place
Breathing continues normally
💬 Caregiver Tip: If a loved one holds food in their cheeks or can’t chew properly, this phase may be impaired.
2. Oral Transit Phase
Tongue pushes the bolus to the back of the mouth
Soft palate rises to block off the nose
Swallow reflex begins
🧠 This phase is where timing becomes critical. Any delay = higher choking risk.
3. Pharyngeal Phase
Bolus enters throat (pharynx)
Voice box (larynx) lifts and closes to protect the airway
The epiglottis folds over the windpipe
Breathing stops briefly
⛔ This is the most dangerous phase to get wrong — aspiration (food going into the airway) can happen here.
4. Esophageal Phase
Bolus enters the esophagus
Peristalsis (muscle contractions) push food to the stomach
This part is involuntary—and often affected in conditions like Parkinson’s or after a stroke.
🛠 Tools That Support Normal Swallowing
Once you understand how swallowing works, you can support it better with the right tools:
🧘♀️ The Breather Device – strengthens the muscles responsible for airway protection and coordination
🥤 Flow-Control Dysphagia Cup – helps control liquid flow for those with delayed reflexes
🍽️ Spill-Proof Scoop Plate, 9" (2 Pack) – reduce frustration and fatigue at mealtime
🍽️ Spill Proof Scoop Plate and Bowl - reduce frustration and fatigue at mealtime
🎥 Watch: How Swallowing Works
Catch my visual breakdown of this on YouTube — it’s a quick explainer made for caregivers like you.👉 Subscribe to my channel
👩🏽⚕️ Final Thoughts
Normal swallowing is anything but simple. When even one small part of the process is off, it can lead to serious complications. But with the right tools, education, and support, you can make mealtimes safer and more enjoyable.
Need a personalized swallowing consult for your loved one? I’m Donnetta Davis, MS, CCC-SLP — and I specialize in helping adults regain safe swallowing and communication skills. Click here to book a session.
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