Tonsil Stones – What Causes Them, How They Develop, and How You Can Prevent Them
Tonsil Stones are a common type 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 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. Tooth decay can also be caused by these bacteria.
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. This causes the tonsils to become swollen and 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
Tonsil stones may be the reason you have bad breath or chronically bad breath. 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. 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.
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 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.
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 and bleeding, sore throat, and other problems. 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 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. However, it’s important to avoid mouthwashes with alcohol. 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 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. You can get rid of them through regular flossing and brushing. You can also gargle with warm salt water 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. Brush your teeth at least twice daily. Use a non-alcohol mouthwash to rinse your teeth.