Get Rid of Tonsil Stones Safely with Natural Techniques
Tonsil stones are common and easily treated. Here’s what they are, how to identify them, and how they can be treated by a qualified biological dentist.
What Are Tonsil Stones?
Tonsil stones are small- to medium-size deposits of calcium that come from the back of the throat. They represent the buildup of food, bacteria, and cells that your tonsils filter out.
According to Harvard Health, up to 40% of people get tonsil stones.
These deposits are usually white or yellowish and can start out soft but harden over time. Many people aren’t aware that they have them. Others can experience unpleasant symptoms associated with these foreign bodies.
Symptoms of Tonsil Stones
People with tonsil stones often notice:
- The appearance of small “pebbles” in the back of the throat
- Ongoing bad breath that brushing or mouthwash doesn’t seem to help
- A bad taste in the mouth
- Discomfort or difficulty with swallowing
- Frequently feeling the need to swallow
- Sore throat, coughing, and earaches
Understanding the Causes of Tonsil Stones
Tonsil stones can be caused by several issues or a combination of them, like:
- Poor dental hygiene
- Tonsillitis
- Dental and sinus infections
- Hormonal or calcium imbalances in the body
- Dehydration or poor lymphatic drainage
- Breathing through the mouth
- Bad bacteria in your oral microbiome
Tonsil Stone Treatment
Things You Can Do at Home
Gargling with warm salt water or apple cider vinegar can help break down and dislodge stubborn tonsil stones. You can also use a water flosser or cotton swab to gently push the tonsil stone out of its pocket. Sometimes, coughing can also dislodge tonsil stones. Try drinking warm tea first to soften the stone and surrounding tissues to make it easier to cough out.
When to See Your Dentist
Home remedies may not work for some tonsil stones. Contact your dentist right away if you notice:
- Bloody saliva
- Extreme difficulty with swallowing or talking
- White or yellow discharge from your tonsils
- Difficulty eating acidic foods
- Significant pain or swelling around the throat
Medical Treatment Options for Tonsil Stones
Depending on the severity of your condition, your dentist may be able to remove the tonsil stones in the office or may refer you to an ear, nose, and throat specialist (ENT). You may need treatment with antibiotics and/or anti-inflammatory medications if you have an infection. In extreme cases, laser tonsil surgery or a tonsillectomy may be recommended, especially if you get tonsil stones frequently or your symptoms interfere with daily life.
Tonsil Stone Prevention Strategies
There are several things you can do to prevent tonsil stones, especially if you get them often, like:
- Practicing excellent oral hygiene by brushing and flossing at least twice a day
- Rinsing your mouth after eating, particularly after acidic or sugary foods
- Avoiding mouthwash made with alcohol, which can dry out your mouth and throat
- Breathing through your nose, especially at night when sleeping
- Eating a healthy, nutritious diet that is low in processed foods
Get Rid of Tonsil Stones Today
If you’re experiencing symptoms of tonsil stones, Dr. Nammy Patel can help. At Green Dentistry, we use safe and effective methods to get rid of tonsil stones and promote the body’s natural healing mechanisms to keep them from coming back. Contact us today to schedule your appointment at our Union Square dental office by calling (415) 413-4846.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are tonsil stones contagious between people?
No, tonsil stones are not caused by a virus and cannot be spread from person to person.
When do tonsil stones go away?
Some tonsil stones may go away on their own in a few days or weeks, while others may need to be physically removed from the throat if they haven’t resolved in over a month.
What happens if tonsil stones aren’t treated?
If tonsil stones aren’t removed, they can harbor harmful bacteria and cause throat infections and other health problems. Constantly swallowing bacteria can negatively affect your heart and brain, and even potentially worsen existing chronic illness.
