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 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.

Tonsil stones are caused by bacteria that accumulate in the pockets of the tonsils. When these bacteria are left untreated, they can lead to an oral 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.

If you have recurring problems with your tonsils, you may need to undergo tonsillectomy, a surgical procedure. In the meantime, 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. 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. 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. These particles can be detected by a dentist or an otolaryngologist. A medical professional can then recommend a treatment plan.

The size and pain of your tonsil stones will determine the appropriate treatment for you. Sometimes, surgery can be used to remove large stones. 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 and bleeding, sore throat, and other problems. However, they are not contagious.

There are many options for treating tonsil stones symptoms. These include both surgical and natural treatments. You might also consider 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.

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.

A tonsillectomy is an outpatient procedure 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 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 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 is a good idea for your teeth to be checked at least once per 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. Use a non-alcohol mouthwash to rinse your teeth.