Decreased lingual strength with age combined with unchanging swallowing pressure leads to a decreased "pressure reserve," perhaps leaving older individuals more at risk for dysphagia resulting from insults directly or indirectly to the swallowing system. Additionally, swallowing is generally "slowed" with age, apparently due to both central and peripheral factors, and this change may have an impact on bolus flow outcomes.

The authors review the diagnosis and current trends in management of mandible fractures.

A decision instrument based on clinical criteria can ensure appropriate screening of patients at high risk for facial fracture. Application of this instrument may reduce unnecessary maxillofacial imaging.