Tonsil Stones – What Causes Them, How They Develop, and How You Can Prevent Them

Tonsil stones are a common form of oral disease. They can lead to serious problems if they are not taken care of. Thankfully, there are treatment options that are available for these kinds of issues. Learn more about what causes them, how they develop, and how you can prevent them.

Symptoms

Tonsil stones are a collection of calcified material. These small clumps can range in size and shape and can be either yellow or white. They can be difficult to spot, but they can cause a number of unpleasant symptoms.

Toxic bacteria can build up in the tonsils, causing tonsil stones. If these bacteria are not treated, they can cause an infection. They also can contribute to tooth decay.

The tonsils act as filters to trap germs in the mouth. However, some conditions increase the amount of germs in the mouth, including strep throat. This causes the tonsils to become swollen and inflamed. This can make it difficult for the tonsils to filter out food and mucus.

Tonsillectomy is a surgical procedure that can be performed if you have persistent problems with your tonsils. You can take steps to prevent tonsil problems. You can also talk to your doctor to find out more about your options.

Diagnosis

If you notice that you have chronic bad breath, you may have tonsil stones. These hardened deposits are made by bacteria and other debris. They form in the crevices of your tonsils and can cause infections and other problems.

To prevent tonsil stone buildup, floss daily and brush your teeth after each meal. Use an alcohol-free mouthwash to rinse. To get rid of plaque or other debris, you can use a water flosser.

You should be able to determine whether you have a tonsil stone by having a physical exam. These particles can be detected by a dentist or an otolaryngologist. A medical professional can then suggest a treatment plan.

The appropriate treatment will depend on the size and pain of your tonsil stone. Sometimes, surgery can be used to remove large stones. You may be able remove a larger, more hard stone with a cotton swab, or a dental pick.

Treatment options

Tonsil stones can be a common condition. They occur when food debris, mucus and other substances are lodged in the tonsils. They can cause bad breath, bleeding, sore throat and more. However, they are not contagious.

If you’re experiencing tonsil stone symptoms, there are several treatments available. These include both surgical and natural treatments. You might also consider home remedies. These are easy to do and can be effective.

Tonsil stones can be removed by using a mouthwash containing neutralizing bacteria. However, it’s important to avoid mouthwashes with alcohol. You could end up worsening your condition if you use the wrong kind of mouthwash.

Tonsil stones that are too large for mouthwash to remove may require surgical treatment. Laser tonsil cryptolysis or tonsillectomy are two options.

Tonsillectomy is an outpatient procedure that is performed under general anesthesia. It is an effective treatment for chronic tonsillitis and can prevent the possibility of developing tonsil stones in the future.

Prevention

Tonsil stones may form in your throat as tiny, whitish particles. They can cause soreness and inflammation in your throat, as well as bad breath. The best way to prevent tonsil stones is to practice proper oral hygiene.

Tonsil stones can occur at any age. But they are most common in adults. They can be removed by regular flossing and brushing. You can also gargle with warm salt water regularly. You should avoid smoking, carbonated drinks and sugary foods.

It’s a good idea to visit the dentist for a checkup at least once a year. Your dentist can examine your tonsils to determine if they are causing problems. If they are deemed to be a problem by your dentist, he/she may recommend that they be removed.

Poor oral hygiene is often the cause of tonsil stones. Brush your teeth at least twice daily. You should also rinse with a mouthwash that is free of alcohol.