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

Tonsil Stones are a common type of oral disease. If they aren’t treated, they can cause serious problems. There are many treatment options available for these types of issues. Find out more about the causes, how they develop and how you can prevent them.

Symptoms

Tonsil stones are collections of calcified debris. 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 more difficult for the tonsils and mucus to filter out food.

If you have recurring problems with your tonsils, you may need to undergo tonsillectomy, a surgical procedure. You can take steps to prevent tonsil problems. Talk to your doctor to learn 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. These hard deposits can form in the tonsils’ crevices and can lead to infections.

To prevent tonsil stones, brush your teeth after every meal and floss regularly. You should also rinse with alcohol-free mouthwash. To get rid of plaque or other debris, you can use a water flosser.

A physical exam should help you determine if you have a tonsilstone. 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. Large stones can sometimes be removed with surgery. You may be able remove a larger, more hard stone with a cotton swab, or a dental pick.

Treatment options

Tonsil stones are a common health 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.

There are many options for treating tonsil stones symptoms. These include natural and surgical procedures. 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.

A tonsillectomy is an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia. It’s an effective treatment for chronic tonsillitis, and it can eliminate the risk of having to suffer from 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 happen at any age. They are most common in adults. They can be removed by regular flossing and brushing. You can also gargle with warm salt water regularly. Avoid smoking, sugary foods, and carbonated drinks.

It’s a good idea to visit the dentist for a checkup at least once a year. Your dentist will be able to examine your tonsils and determine if they are causing you problems. If your dentist deems them to be a problem, he or she may recommend getting them 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.