what structure prevents food from entering the trachea when you swallow?esophagusepiglottistonguetonsils
During this process, your epiglottis covers the larynx (voice box) to prevent the bolus from entering the larynx or trachea (windpipe) when you swallow. This prevents food or liquid from entering your lungs. This is also why you cannot talk or breathe while you swallow. Your esophagus is a tube that moves food from your throat to your stomach.