Have you ever experienced difficulty swallowing in combination with discomfort in the back of your throat? You may have had tonsil stones! Tonsil stones are small, calcified deposits that form in the crevices of the tonsils and are made up of bacteria, dead cells, and other debris that can accumulate. In this blog post, we will provide you with indicators of tonsil stones, what exactly causes them, and ways to treat the issue. Keep reading below to learn more.
Tonsil Stone Symptoms
Symptoms of tonsil stones can include:
- Bad breath
- A feeling of something stuck in your throat
- Swelling in the tonsils
- Sore throat
- Difficulty swallowing
- And ear pain
Tonsil stones are often asymptomatic, meaning they do not cause any symptoms. However, when they do cause symptoms, they can range from mild to severe depending on the size of the stones and how many are present.
Tonsil Stone Causes
The main cause of tonsil stones is poor oral hygiene. When food and bacteria build up in the tonsils, they can form a hard, calcified deposit. People who have deep crevices in their tonsils may be more prone to developing tonsil stones.
Tonsil Stone Treatment
Treatment for tonsil stones typically involves removing the stones. This can be done through a number of methods, including:
- A water flosser to flush out the stones
- Toothbrush or cotton swab utilized gently to push out the stones
- Applying a saline solution to loosen the stones
- A tonsil stone remover tool
If tonsil stones are causing persistent symptoms or if they are large and difficult to remove, a tonsillectomy (surgical removal of the tonsils) may be recommended.
It is important to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent the formation of tonsil stones. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, and flossing daily. Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol consumption can also help prevent tonsil stones.
For long-term pain in your tonsils, please contact our office at your earliest convenience.
