How They Form    | Gargling | Water Flosser | Cotton Swab | Professional Help | Signs You Should Seek Help | Good Oral Hygiene | Should You Brush Your Tonsils?

How Tonsil Stones Form

Tonsils are two small glands located at the back of your throat. They are part of the immune system and help to trap and filter out bacteria and viruses that enter the body through the mouth and nose. The surface of the tonsils is covered with crevices, tunnels, and pits called tonsillar crypts.

Tonsil stones form when debris gets trapped in the tonsillar crypts. This debris can include dead cells, mucus, saliva, food particles, and bacteria. Over time, the trapped debris can harden or calcify, forming small, white or yellowish stones.

"Yellowish tonsilolith"

Safe Ways to Remove Tonsil Stones

Most of the time, tonsil stones are harmless and will dislodge themselves naturally through coughing, swallowing, or even talking. But for some, these stubborn stones can linger and cause discomfort, like bad breath or a persistent sore throat.

If that's the case for you, don't fret! There are safe ways to try and remove them yourself, though it's important to remember these methods are best suited for adults with easily visible tonsil stones and no history of frequent tonsillitis or bleeding. If you're unsure, it's always best to consult a doctor or ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist.

Gargling with Salt Water

Gargling with warm salt water can help dislodge tonsil stones and soothe any irritation in your throat. The saline solution acts as an antibacterial agent, reducing the risk of infection and inflammation.

How to do it:

• Mix 1 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water.

• Gargle the solution for 30 seconds.

• Repeat this process 2-3 times a day to dislodge the tonsil stones. Including this in your oral care routine can rinse out any debris after eating and lessen the chances of them forming into stones.

Using a Water Flosser or Oral Irrigator

An oral irrigator (water flosser) can be effective in flushing out tonsil stones. The steady stream of water can reach areas that are hard to clean with a toothbrush or cotton swab.

How to do it:

• Set the irrigator to the lowest pressure setting.

• Aim the water stream directly at the stone to dislodge it.

• Use this method with caution to avoid injuring your tonsils.

Using a Cotton Swab

For stones that are visible and easily accessible, you can use a cotton swab to gently dislodge them.

How to do it:

• Ensure your hands are clean and your mouth is well-lit.

• Moisten the cotton swab or toothbrush with water.

• Gently press around the tonsil stone until it dislodges.

• Be careful not to scratch or injure your tonsils in the process.

Seeing an Otolaryngologist

If tonsil stones are large, recurrent, or causing significant discomfort, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional. An ENT specialist can provide more advanced treatments, such as:

• Manual removal: A professional can safely remove the stones using specialized tools.

• Laser Tonsil Cryptolysis: This procedure uses a laser to reduce the size of the crevices in the tonsils where stones form.

• Tonsillectomy: In severe or chronic cases, removing the tonsils altogether may be recommended.

Signs You Should Seek Help from an ENT Doctor

You should see an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) doctor for tonsil stones if you experience any of these symptoms and they become bothersome or don't go away on their own after a few days:

• Frequent or recurring tonsil stones

• Large tonsil stones

• Persistent bad breath

• Difficulty swallowing or pain

• Tonsillitis

• Swollen tonsils

• Bleeding

• No improvement with home care

• Other symptoms such as ear pain, difficulty breathing, or unexplained fatigue

Practicing Good Oral Hygiene

Preventing tonsil stones starts with good oral hygiene. Regular brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash can help reduce the bacteria and debris that contribute to the formation of tonsil stones.

Should You Brush Your Tonsils?

While brushing your teeth and tongue is a crucial part of maintaining oral hygiene, brushing your tonsils directly is not typically recommended. The tonsils are delicate and can be easily damaged. However, keeping the back of your throat clean can help reduce the risk of tonsil stones forming.

Tips for Keeping Your Tonsils Clean

• Use a tongue scraper: Scraping your tongue can help remove bacteria and debris that may contribute to tonsil stones.

• Gargle regularly: Using an antibacterial mouthwash or salt water can help keep your tonsils clean without the need for brushing.

• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps wash away food particles and bacteria, keeping your mouth and tonsils cleaner.

Seek Help for Tonsil Stones in Hollywood, FL

If you’re dealing with persistent tonsil stones or if they are causing significant discomfort, it might be time to consult an ENT specialist. Our team at ENT Family can provide personalized treatment options and advice to help you manage and prevent tonsil stones effectively.

Address: 3911 Hollywood Blvd#201, Hollywood, FL 33021, United States

Phone: 754-888-1368

Email: info@entfamily.com