Tonsil Stones- Should you worry about them?

In the medical and healthcare world, when you hear the word “stones” it is probably and more often thought of to be “kidney stones”. However, another type of stone that people have never heard of until their dental surgeon explains the condition is “tonsil stones”.

Have you heard of tonsil stones?

Our tonsils sit in the back of our throats, one on each side and are gland-like structures. They are made of cells that prevent and fight infections. There is a claim that tonsils play a role in the well-being of our immune system. They are meant to work like webs, trapping bacteria and viruses that come in through our throats.

But sometimes, they can cause more trouble than help and need to be removed. People who have their tonsils removed are more likely to be affected by bacterial or viral infections.

Tonsil stones or tonsilloliths are hard bits of bacteria and debris that form in or on our tonsils. They can be white or yellow and vary in size.

Why do we experience tonsil stones?

Tonsils are filled with nooks and crannies where bacteria and other things such as dead skin, dead cells and mucus can get trapped. When they get trapped, the debris and bacteria combine to form white pus, and tonsil stones form as the trapped debris hardens.

One of the major contributing factors is oral bacteria. Also, sinuses - the mucus that is secreted can lead to a build-up of tonsil stones. Furthermore, if the tonsils are large, they have a greater chance of catching food particles, bacteria, and mucus, resulting in a larger stone buildup.

What are the signs and symptoms of Tonsil Stones?

You are probably having tonsil stones if your tonsils are large, swollen and if you have any of these symptoms:

Persistent bad breath
A cough that will not stop
Frequent sore throat
Trouble swallowing
Ongoing cough
Swollen tonsils
White or yellow debris on the tonsils
Feeling that something’s stuck in the throat
Earache

At Sakra World, our best ENT doctor in Bangalore provides the best tonsil stones treatment and care you need.

How to prevent tonsil stones from forming?

Probably the most effortless way to avoid them is to keep bacteria from growing in your mouth and building upon your tonsils and good oral hygiene can help. Here are some ways by which you can prevent tonsil stones from forming:

Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss on a regular basis. Try brushing after each meal, if you are cavity-prone.
Use an antibacterial toothpaste or antibacterial mouthwash.
Clean your tongue while brushing your teeth. The tongue is one place where bacteria like gathering.
Be sure to stay hydrated, dry mouth is one of the causes of growing bacteria. Staying hydrated will help saliva flow and in turn, wash away bacteria and trapped food particles.
Treat any allergies that you may have such as sinus or post-nasal drip.
Visit your dental clinic at least twice every year and get rid of tartar.

How are tonsil stones diagnosed?

Your healthcare professional may

Conduct a physical examination of the mouth and throat
Perform an imaging scan
Dislodge the stones using a dental pick or your dentist may see them during a dental exam.

What is the treatment for Tonsil Stones?

In many cases, tonsil stones that do not cause any symptoms do not need special treatment. However, there are 2 treatments available:

1. Medical/Surgical Tonsilloliths Treatment

Cryptolysis: It involves the use of local anesthesia and a laser or radiofrequency wand to scar the tonsils so the stones do not have a place to hide or do not form.
Tonsillectomy: It is a surgical procedure to remove the tonsils. This is advised only when tonsil stones are a long-term problem.
Antibiotics - Medication to help prevent bacteria formation.

2. Home Remedies and Treatments

Improving your oral hygiene habits.
Quit smoking or using other tobacco products
Gargle with salt water
Stay hydrated.

When should you worry about Tonsil Stones?

If the symptoms worsen and you are suffering from swollen and inflamed tonsils, check with your dentist or best dentist in Bangalore and discuss. If you have been suffering from tonsil stones for a long time and that is affecting your health and hygiene, check with your dental hygienist whether you should consider having your tonsils removed.

If you are looking for tonsil stones removal in Bangalore , then look no further consult Sakra World Hospital. We have a multi-disciplinary team of highly trained and experienced ENT specialist in Bangalore who are well versed in the management and specialized care of a broad range of disorders.