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Tonsil Stone Treatment

A tonsil stone, also known as a tonsillolith, is a compact accumulation (calcification) of assorted substances that become lodged in the crevices of the tonsils. They are relatively harmless and often require no treatment and simply dislodge on their own; however, if they accumulate and become a nuisance, there are a number of ways to remove the stones.

  1. Causes and Symptoms

    • Tonsil stones develop when food enzymes and particles, bacteria and mucus (post-nasal drip) accumulate in the back of the throat. They can be caused by dry mouth, which causes bacteria to flourish in the back of the throat, as well as through excessive mucus caused by post-nasal drip. Most of the time, however, there is no discernible cause and they simply just appear.

      Tonsil stones typically present with no symptoms save for a small, white or yellowish object in the back of the throat. They can vary in size and are generally small enough to not cause any problems; however, they can grow to upward of 1 inch in diameter. At times, they may cause bad breath, caused by a mix of sulfur and bacteria, and a sore throat, while exceptionally large tonsil stones can cause difficulty swallowing. In some cases they may cause recurring cases of tonsillitis, in which surgical removal of the tonsils may be the only option.

    Treatment and Prevention

    • Removing tonsil stones is a simple process. Gargle with mouthwash or salt water to loosen the stones and kill bacteria or use a Water Pik to force the tonsil stones out of the crevices of the tonsils with a high-powered jet of water. Other possible remedies include using a cotton swab dipped in peroxide to dislodge visible stones and a curved eye dropper to suck the stones out.

      A tonsillectomy is the only method to permanently eliminate the chance of tonsil stones. This surgery is a drastic step and is a considerable option only when the stones continually recur despite preventative measures or when they cause frequent bouts of tonsillitis. Conservative treatment combined with good oral hygiene--flossing, brushing and using an alcohol-free mouthwash--is the most effective way to treat the stones and prevent new ones from forming.

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