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What are tonsil stones?
Tonsil stones can form when food, mucus, and bacteria get stuck in craters of the tonsils. The tonsils are lymph nodes located at the back of the throat. Tonsil stones (also called tonsilloliths or tonsil calculi) are small clusters of calcifications or stones that form in the craters (crypts) of the tonsils. Tonsil stones are hard and appear as white or yellowish formations on the tonsils. They usually smell bad (and make your breath smell bad) due to bacteria. How long do tonsil stones last?The length of time tonsil stones last varies and depends on a number of factors.
Tonsillitis SymptomsSigns of tonsil infectionTonsillitis, or inflammation of the tonsils, typically occurs due to infection caused by viruses or bacteria. Tonsillitis is often accompanied by these symptoms:
What are causes and risk factors of tonsil stones?
Several factors can cause or contribute to the formation of tonsil stones.
Risk factors for developing tonsil stones include people with:
What are symptoms of tonsil stones?
In many cases, tonsil stones do not cause any symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
What specialists treat tonsil stones?If symptoms of tonsil stones are severe, you may see an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist, also called an otolaryngologist. How are tonsil stones diagnosed?Tonsil stones can frequently be seen in the back of the throat. They typically appear as white or yellowish spots on or around the tonsils that may range in size from a grain of rice to a pea. For stones that cannot be visualized, an MRI or CT scan can help make a definitive diagnosis. Health NewsWhat are the treatments for tonsil stones?Tonsil stones treatment is not always needed. Stones frequently either dissolve on their own or are coughed up. For stones that do not go away on their own, there are several types of treatments:
How to get rid of tonsil stones at home
Manual tonsil stone removal at home is generally not recommended. Tonsils are delicate tissues, and removing them on your own may cause bleeding and infection. Home remedies to get rid of tonsil stones include:
How to prevent tonsil stonesThere are several ways to prevent tonsil stones:
Subscribe to MedicineNet's General Health NewsletterBy clicking Submit, I agree to the MedicineNet's Terms & Conditions & Privacy Policy and understand that I may opt out of MedicineNet's subscriptions at any time. Medically Reviewed on 3/9/2022 References American Academy of Otolaryngology. Tonsils and Adenoids. 2019. October 2019. Bickle, Ian and Maxime St-Amant. Tonsillolith. 2019. October 2019. Busaba, Nicholas and Shira Doron. Tonsillectomy in adults: Indications. Sept. 24, 2019. October 2019. Tonsilstoness.com. Tonsil Stones Guide. 2019. October 2019. Why do I get white stones in my throat?Tonsil Stone Causes
Your tonsils are filled with nooks and crannies where bacteria and other things, including dead cells and mucus, can get trapped. When this happens, the debris can bond together. Tonsil stones form when this debris hardens, or calcifies.
How do you get rid of tonsil stones?If you have tonsil stones, these at-home remedies can help:. A warm saltwater gargle helps with swelling and discomfort. Gargling can even help dislodge the stone. Try a gargle of 1 teaspoon salt mixed with 8 ounces of water.. Use a cotton swab to remove a tonsil stone that's bothering you.. Brush and floss regularly.. Will tonsil stones go away?In most cases, tonsil stones are harmless buildup that will go away on their own or with proper oral hygiene and at-home removal. However, they can be a sign of a more serious problem, such as tonsillitis.
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