Tonsil Stones – What Causes Them, How They Develop, and How You Can Prevent Them
Tonsil stones are a common form of oral disease. If they aren’t treated, they can cause serious problems. Thankfully, there are treatment options that are available for these kinds of issues. Find out more about the causes, 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. Although they are difficult to spot, they can cause many unpleasant symptoms.
Tonsil stones are caused by bacteria that accumulate in the pockets of the tonsils. If these bacteria are not treated, they can cause an infection. Tooth decay can also be caused by these bacteria.
The tonsils act as filters to trap 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.
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
Tonsil stones may be the reason you have bad breath or chronically bad breath. These small hard deposits are formed by bacteria and 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.
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 size and pain of your tonsil stones will determine the appropriate treatment for you. 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.
If you’re experiencing tonsil stone symptoms, there are several treatments available. These include natural and surgical procedures. You might also consider home remedies. These are simple to do and can prove 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.
A tonsillectomy is an outpatient procedure 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. 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’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 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. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day. Use a non-alcohol mouthwash to rinse your teeth.