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. 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 tiny clumps can be yellow or white in color and can vary in size and shape. 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. The tonsils can become swollen or 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
Tonsil stones may be the reason you have bad breath or chronically bad breath. 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. You can use a water flosser to get rid of plaque and other debris that could be causing the problem.
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 recommend 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. But if you have a smaller, hard stone, you may be able to remove it with a cotton swab or 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 and bleeding, sore throat, and other problems. They are not contagious.
There are many options for treating tonsil stones symptoms. These include both surgical and natural treatments. You may also want to try some 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.
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’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 are tiny, whitish debris that may form in your throat. 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. You can get rid of them through regular flossing and brushing. Gargle with warm saltwater 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 will be able to examine your tonsils and determine if they are causing you problems. If they are deemed to be a problem by your dentist, he/she may recommend that they be removed.
Tonsil stones are usually caused by poor oral hygiene. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day. Use a non-alcohol mouthwash to rinse your teeth.