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

Tonsil Stones are a common type 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.

Normally, the tonsils act as filters to trap and remove germs in the mouth. Some conditions, such as strep throat, can increase the number of germs in your mouth. This causes the tonsils to become swollen and inflamed. This can make it difficult for the tonsils to filter out food and mucus.

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. Use an alcohol-free mouthwash to rinse. 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. A dentist or otolaryngologist can detect the presence of these particles in your mouth. A medical professional can then recommend 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. Tonsil stones are caused by food debris, mucus, and other substances getting stuck 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.

Using a mouthwash with neutralizing bacteria can help dislodge tonsil stones. However, it’s important to avoid mouthwashes with alcohol. If you use the wrong type of mouthwash, you may end up worsening your condition.

If you have tonsil stones that are too large to be removed by a mouthwash, you might consider surgical treatment. Some of the options available to you are laser tonsil cryptolysis and tonsillectomy.

Tonsillectomy is an outpatient procedure that is 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 inflammation and soreness in your throat. Proper oral hygiene is the best way to prevent tonsil stone formation.

Tonsil stones can occur at any age. But they are most common in adults. You can get rid of them through regular flossing and brushing. You can also gargle with warm salt water regularly. You should avoid smoking, carbonated drinks and sugary foods.

It is a good idea for your teeth to be checked at least once per 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.