Call Us At

Tonsil Stones

What Are Tonsil Stones?

Tonsil stones (tonsilloliths) are small, calcified deposits that form within the crevices of the tonsils. These deposits are composed of various materials, including dead cells, mucus, bacteria, and food particles that have become trapped in different nooks of the tonsils and hardened into stones. They are usually white or yellow in colour and can be found on either side of the pharyngeal tonsils at the back of the throat.

While tonsil stones are generally harmless, they can cause discomfort or other symptoms in some individuals and may indicate underlying health problems, such as infection and tonsillitis.

What Are the Symptoms of Tonsil Stones?

Tonsil stones can present themselves differently, with some individuals experiencing no symptoms at all. Nonetheless, some symptoms associated with tonsil stones include:

Bad Breath (Halitosis) - The buildup of bacteria and debris within the tonsils provides a home for anaerobic bacteria that produce foul-smelling sulphides.
Sore Throat - Tonsil stones can irritate and inflame the surrounding tissues, causing discomfort or a scratchy feeling in the throat.
Difficulty Swallowing - Large or multiple tonsil stones can cause partial blockage in the throat, making it difficult or uncomfortable to swallow food or liquids.
Persistent Cough - Tonsil stones can trigger a reflex cough as the body tries to expel the foreign object.
Ear Pain - Tonsil stones may cause referred pain in the ears due to interconnected nerve pathways between the tonsils and the ear canals.
Visible White or Yellow Spots - In some cases, tonsil stones may be visible as small, protruding masses at the back of the throat.

What Causes Tonsil Stones Formation?

The formation of tonsil stones is caused by several factors, including:

Trapped Debris - The tonsils have crevices and pockets where food particles, mucus, and other particles can accumulate and harden over time, forming tonsil stones.
Frequent Tonsil Infections - Repeated infections can cause scarring within the tonsils, leading to deeper crypts and debris getting trapped in the tonsils.
Dry Mouth - Reduced saliva flow, often due to dehydration, can lead to a dry mouth and throat, making it easier for debris to stick and form stones.
Enlarged Tonsillar Crypts - Larger or deeper crypts in the tonsils can cause debris to accumulate and form stones.
Poor Oral Hygiene - Irregular oral hygiene practices, such as inadequate brushing and flossing, can lead to bacterial buildup in the mouth and throat, increasing the risk of developing tonsil stones.

How Are Tonsil Stones Treated?

The treatment for tonsil stones varies depending on the severity of the symptoms and the individual's preferences.

Non-Surgical Removal

Small or mild tonsil stones usually dislodge and resolve on their own in a few days or weeks.
Carefully using cotton swabs or gargling with salt water can also help to flush out debris from the tonsils.
An ENT specialist or dentist can help to remove the tonsil stones using specialised tools, if needed.

Surgical Removal

However, larger or persistent tonsil stones may require surgical removal, which includes:

Tonsillectomy - A tonsillectomy (surgical removal of tonsils) may be performed for patients experiencing chronic tonsil infections or persistent tonsil stones that cause severe symptoms, such as breathing and swallowing problems.
Laser Tonsil Cryptolysis - This is a less invasive method whereby a laser is used to smooth the surface of the tonsils and reduce the pockets (crypts) where tonsil stones normally form.

How to Prevent Tonsil Stones

While tonsil stones can be difficult to prevent entirely, these tips can help to reduce the likelihood of them forming. These include:

Practising proper oral hygiene.
Drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated and flush out trapped particles from the mouth and throat.
Refraining from smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

FAQs About Tonsil Stones

Antibacterial mouthwash can help to reduce bacteria in the mouth and on the tonsils, which may lower the risk of tonsil stone formation.

It can also help to loosen or dislodge existing ones, although this is not always effective especially in cases of larger or deeper stones.

If you notice enlarged tonsils, redness, or bleeding, or are experiencing symptoms such as a persistent sore throat or ear pain, it is advisable to consult an ENT specialist. He or she will be able to diagnose the underlying cause of tonsil stones and recommend a suitable treatment plan.

Contact Information