Tonsil Stones
: What They Are and How to Get Rid of Them What are tonsil stones? Tonsil stones, or tonsilloliths, are hard white or yellow formations that are located on or within the tonsils. It’s common for people with tonsil stones to not even realize they have them. Tonsil stones aren’t always easy to see and they can range from rice-sized to the size of a large grape. Tonsil stones rarely cause larger health complications. However, sometimes they can grow into larger formations that can cause your tonsils to swell, and they often have an unpleasant odor. What causes tonsil stones? Your tonsils are made up of crevices, tunnels, and pits called tonsil crypts. Different types of debris, such as dead cells, mucus, saliva, and food, can get trapped in these pockets and build up. Bacteria and fungi feed on this buildup and cause a distinct odor. Over time, the debris hardens into a tonsil stone. Some people may have only one tonsil stone, while others have many smaller formations. Potential causes of tonsil stones include: • poor dental hygiene • large tonsils • chronic sinus issues • chronic tonsillitis (inflamed tonsils) Advertisement Symptoms Symptoms of tonsil stones Although some tonsil stones may be difficult to see, they can still cause noticeable symptoms. Symptoms of tonsil stones can include: • bad breath • sore throat • trouble swallowing • ear pain • ongoing cough • swollen tonsils • white or yellow debris on the tonsil Smaller tonsil stones, which are more common than large ones, may not cause any symptoms. Prevention Preventing tonsil stones If you have tonsil stones, they may occur on a regular basis. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent them. These steps include: • practicing good oral hygiene, including cleaning the bacteria off the back of your tongue when you brush your teeth • stopping smoking • gargling with salt water • drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated.