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. There are many treatment options available for these types of issues. Learn more about what causes them, how they develop, and how you can prevent them.

Symptoms

Tonsil stones are collections of calcified debris. These tiny clumps can be yellow or white in color and can vary in size and shape. 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. 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 more difficult for the tonsils and mucus to filter out food.

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. 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 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 stone buildup, floss daily and brush your teeth after each meal. You should also rinse with alcohol-free mouthwash. 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. 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. 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. They occur when food debris, mucus and other substances are lodged 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 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. It is important to avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes. You could end up worsening your condition if you use the wrong kind of mouthwash.

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 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 happen 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. 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.

Tonsil stones are usually caused by poor oral hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice daily. Use a non-alcohol mouthwash to rinse your teeth.