Tonsil Stones: Symptoms And Treatments

When bacteria and debris are caught in the tonsils it is possible for them to become calcified and create tonsil stones. The tonsils help filter out germs, bacteria, infections, and are an active part of the immune system. Sometimes they become overrun with these bacteria and can become infected or create tonsil stones.

Tonsil stones appear as small white or yellow stones, or little balls of tartar build-up at the back of the mouth on the tonsils. They can occasionally be dislodged and removed by gargling with salt water but treatment from a doctor should be sought. This build-up may include bits of food, mucus, dead cells or even saliva that has gotten caught on the tonsils over time. This build-up can become hardened over time if not removed and will form small stones in the tonsils. Tonsil stones can occur one at a time or in some cases small groupings of them can be found.

Symptoms

Symptoms of tonsil stones and tonsillitis are very similar, and require a doctor’s attention and treatment. These symptoms can include things as simple as bad breath, pain and discomfort, or a slight cough created by the irritation of the tonsil stones. The symptoms can range to things like difficulty swallowing due to the increased space taken up by the tonsils and stones, swelling of the tonsils, and even ear pain. In recurrent cases or ones that have been ongoing they can even damage the tonsils themselves and lead to infections deep within the tonsils or abscesses.

Remedies

Basic home remedies can help to reduce the build-up of tonsil stones and help to reduce tonsil infections by helping to clear debris and bacteria from the area. Brushing and flossing twice a day, regular dental visits, and gargling with salt water can all assist in deterring tonsil stones and help clean them out. When these remedies are not successful a doctor will prescribe an antibiotic to clear the infection and build- up, but some cases will require surgical solutions. Tonsils can be removed in surgery or can be removed with a laser, or they may use a laser to scratch and scar them to make it harder for build-up to occur.

While tonsil stones are often harmless and cause little discomfort they may become more problematic and lead to larger health concerns. The treatments for them range from deterrents to build-up, including scarring and salt water gargling, to antibiotics and even surgical removal in recurring cases. Not everyone can avoid the occurrence of tonsil stones, but you should not try to remove them yourself. Seek medical treatment when symptoms such as bad breath; pain in the mouth, ears, and throat or trouble swallowing occur.

Looking for a 100% all-natural liquid tooth oil and mouth rinse? Check out OraMD Original Strength and OraMD Extra Strength. Subscribe to our Trusted Health Club newsletter for more information about natural living tips, natural health, oral health and skincare. If you are looking for more health resources make sure to check out the Trusted Health Resources list. 

Written By:

Kassandra Foreman has been writing freelance for five years now and enjoys learning about new things to write about. When not writing she teaches yoga and meditation with a focus on health and fitness.

Reviewed By:

Founder Ray Spotts has a passion for all things natural and has made a life study of nature as it relates to health and well-being. Ray became a forerunner bringing products to market that are extraordinarily effective and free from potentially harmful chemicals and additives. For this reason Ray formed Trusted Health Products, a company you can trust for clean, effective, and healthy products. Ray is an organic gardener, likes fishing, hiking, and teaching and mentoring people to start new businesses. You can get his book for free, “How To Succeed In Business Based On God’s Word,” at www.rayspotts.com.