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Note for the Master Mind                      When swallowing, the lower jaw generally supports itself briefly against the upper jaw. Swallowing_material (food, liquid/saliva) is collected in the middle of the back of the tongue in a cup-shaped bowl. This bowl is then (1) pressed with its contents against the roof of the mouth, sealing it there ,then (2) the bowl opens toward the pharynx, (3) the larynx  is raised and  (4) its lid closes,  (5) the muscles push the swallowed material backward into the esophagus, from where (6) it is forced downward through the esopha-gus in a wave movement - or upwards, if the person makes a handstand, which would probably not be the norm.                                                            Conclusion: In phase 5, the lower jaw can CURRENTLY support itself against the upper jaw not only via the tongue muscle but also via the rows of teeth. Glenerally the tooth surfaces never touch each other directly “in normal opera-tion”. When the teeth “wear out” it is the result of malfunc-tion/habit.

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