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 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.

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. 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. The tonsils can become swollen or 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. 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 small hard deposits are formed by bacteria and debris. They form in the crevices of your tonsils and can cause infections and other problems.

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.

You should be able to determine whether you have a tonsil stone by having a physical exam. A dentist or otolaryngologist can detect the presence of these particles in your mouth. 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.

There are many 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. They are not contagious.

There are many options for treating tonsil stones symptoms. These include natural and surgical procedures. You may also want to try some home remedies. These are easy to do and can be effective.

Using a mouthwash with neutralizing bacteria can help dislodge tonsil stones. It is important to avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes. 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. 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 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. They are most common in adults. They can be removed by 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 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.

Tonsil stones are usually caused by poor oral hygiene. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day. You should also rinse with a mouthwash that is free of alcohol.