What is the primary function of the Oral phase of swallowing?

• A. Bolus formation and preparation
• B. Bolus propulsion through the pharynx
• C. Peristaltic transport to the stomach
• D. Airway protection during swallow

Answer: (A)

The oral phase is the preparation stage of swallowing, driven by voluntary control. Its main job is bolus formation and preparation: the teeth chew, the tongue and surrounding muscles mix the food with saliva, and the lips create a seal to keep the bolus contained. This produces a cohesive, moist bolus that can be smoothly guided toward the back of the mouth to initiate the next phase of swallowing. The propulsion through the pharynx, the esophageal peristalsis moving material to the stomach, and the airway protection that happens during swallow are handled in the later phases, not by the primary function of the oral stage.