Understanding Infantile Swallow: Differences From Adult Swallowing

Understanding Infantile Swallow: Differences From Adult Swallowing

Write short note on infantile swallowing.
Answer. Swallowing pattern in infants is different from adults that’s why it is known as infantile swallow.

• Newborn child has ability to take his/her feed from breast.
• During suckling the nipple is drawn in mouth by negative pressure within.
• Tongue lies over lower gumpad and protrudes between nipple and lower lip.
• Milk is directed continuously to pharynx by automatic peristaltic movement of tongue as well as mylohyoid muscle.
• During all this procedure normal breathing continues.
• Milk passes between faucial pillars and lateral channels of pharynx.
• If excess milk is present in the mouth it dribbles toward the chin.

According to Moyers following are the characteristic of infantile swallow:

• Jaws are apart and tongue is placed between upper and lower gum pads.
• Mandible gets stabilized by contraction of muscles of facial expression and interposed tongue.
• Swallow is guided and controlled by sensory interchange between lips and tongue.