Anne-Marie,
Thank you. Following your suggestion, I realize now that trismus was possibly a problem for me in that all the muscles associated with the jaw and neck and tongue have been a major focus for me, especially since I came out from under the pain meds... yawning, at first, was painful and I very closely monitored practically every move I made that was above my shoulders because the smallest thing could distract me and possibly cause pain. The swallowing thing, however, is different, but as I said, it's getting better... before, it was happening more than 5-10 times a day, now less than 2-3 unless it absolutely catches me off guard. I appreciate your concern. I must remember the search button and the wealth of information we have here!