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. Although they are difficult to spot, they can cause many 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.

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. 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. 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. 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 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. But if you have a smaller, hard stone, you may be able to remove it with a cotton swab or dental pick.

There are many 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. However, they are not contagious.

If you’re experiencing tonsil stone symptoms, there are several treatments available. These include both surgical and natural treatments. 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. However, it’s important to avoid mouthwashes with alcohol. You could end up worsening your condition if you use the wrong kind of mouthwash.

Tonsil stones that are too large for mouthwash to remove may require surgical treatment. Laser tonsil cryptolysis or tonsillectomy are two options.

A tonsillectomy is an outpatient procedure 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. 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. 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.

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.