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. 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. When these bacteria are left untreated, they can lead to an oral 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. 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. In the meantime, you can take steps to prevent tonsil problems. Talk to your doctor to learn more about your options.
Diagnosis
If you notice that you have chronic bad breath, you may have tonsil stones. These hardened deposits are made by bacteria and other 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. Sometimes, surgery can be used to remove large stones. 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. 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 may also want to try some home remedies. These are simple to do and can prove 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.
Tonsil stones that are too large for mouthwash to remove may require 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 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 happen at any age. They are most common in adults. They can be removed by 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 can examine your tonsils to determine if they are causing problems. If they are deemed to be a problem by your dentist, he/she may recommend that they be removed.
Poor oral hygiene is often the cause of tonsil stones. Brush your teeth at least twice daily. Use a non-alcohol mouthwash to rinse your teeth.