What Are Tonsil Stones and What Can I Do About Them?

Tonsil stones are small, hard lumps that form in the tonsils. Also called tonsillitis, the calcified material consists of minerals such as calcium, food debris, and fungi or bacteria. The small stones do not always require treatment and can dislodge on their own.

If they become a problem or keep recurring, surgical options are available. They normally occur in teenagers and can cause sore throat and bad breath. Find out what tonsil stones are and what to do about them.

What Are Tonsil Stones

Tonsils are glands found in the back of the throat. They are part of the immune and lymphatic systems. Their function is to capture bacteria before they get to the oral cavity and protect against infection.

Tonsils have small crypts or folds that can allow food debris and bacteria to collect. It creates small lumps known as tonsil stones. They do not usually cause symptoms, but some people experience minor issues such as inflammation or bad breath. Sometimes, tonsil stones can cause infections.

Symptoms of Tonsil Stones

Most people with tonsillitis do not experience symptoms. Some may have symptoms such as:

Bad breath.
Sore throat.
Earache.
Bad taste in the mouth.
Coughing.
Difficulty swallowing.

Tonsil stones can create the sensation of something stuck in your throat. If you open your mouth wide, you might see the small white spots at the back of your throat. Most people discover they have tonsil stones during dental exams.

What Can You Do About Tonsil Stones

If you suspect you may have tonsil stones, you can visit a doctor for a checkup. A doctor will ask about symptoms and examine your mouth. Sometimes, the stones may not be visible, and an imaging scan is needed. Tonsil stones do not pose a serious health risk and may go away without treatment. There are things you can do to manage any symptoms, including:

Brushing your teeth regularly.
Gargling with warm salty water.
Treating allergies that cause increased mucus production.
Coughing can help to dislodge the stones.
Staying properly hydrated.

Avoid trying to remove the stones with your finger or swab, as it may cause complications such as bleeding, choking, or infection.

How to Prevent Tonsilitis

Good oral hygiene can help to reduce the risk of developing tonsil stones. Brush your teeth twice daily or after meals to remove debris and bacteria. Floss daily to remove food trapped in hard-to-reach areas such as between teeth.

Clean your tongue and gargle using saltwater or mouthwash after eating. Quit smoking and drink plenty of water daily. Schedule regular dental appointments for checkups and cleaning.

When to Seek Medical Care

Tonsil stones are usually harmless, but you should seek medical attention if you are experiencing severe symptoms. Severe pain or a sore throat that lasts more than a month requires medical attention.

If you experience recurring tonsillitis, difficulty swallowing, or breathing problems, seek medical care. Medications can help to relieve uncomfortable symptoms. In rare cases, surgical removal of tonsil stones (tonsillectomy) may be necessary.

Tonsil stones are usually not harmful, but they can be irritating. If you get tonsil stones frequently, you may have enlarged tonsillar crypts.

For more information on what tonsil stones are and what to do about them, visit Paglia Family Dental. Our office is in Marlborough, Massachusetts. Call (508) 485-2235 to book an appointment today.

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21505-tonsil-stones

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324778