Which factor can contribute to swallowing issues in a patient with an implant-supported functional unit?

Excess overjet can contribute to swallowing issues in a patient with an implant-supported functional unit because it can affect the positioning of the jaw and the relationship between the upper and lower teeth. A significant overjet means that the front teeth in the upper jaw are further out compared to those in the lower jaw. This misalignment can disrupt the mechanics of chewing and swallowing, making it difficult for patients to properly maneuver food in their mouths and effectively form a bolus for swallowing.

If the upper and lower teeth do not meet properly due to excess overjet, it can lead to difficulties in breaking down food, which is essential for the swallowing process. Additionally, the positioning of the tongue may be altered, further complicating swallowing efficiency. Thus, the anatomical discrepancies caused by excessive overjet can directly influence the patient's ability to take in food and swallow properly, highlighting its impact on swallowing function in this context.