We have all heard about kidney stones or gallstones. It’s common and well-known to everyone, unlike the tonsil stones. Yes, you heard it right stones in tonsils. Interestingly almost 46 percent of individuals who have tonsil stones have no symptoms. Maybe that’s why people are not aware of it.
What Are Tonsil Stones?
Tonsil stones are clinically called Tonsilloliths. They are usually white or yellow deposits. Their size can range from as tiny as a rice grain to as big as a single grape. It usually starts as soft deposits that can easily come out. Certain conditions can transform into stone like masses that medical professionals may need to surgically remove.
Causes and Risk Factors
Tonsils contain a web-like structure with tunnels and holes called crypts. The immune system actively traps all the harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi entering the mouth to fight them. When these crypts increase in size, they may trap more food, mucous, and dirt present in the mouth. All of it leads to tonsil stones. Poor oral hygiene is the major factor causing tonsil stones. Smokers and people with a family history are also at risk of having it.
Symptoms
Most of the time they do not show any symptoms, however in certain conditions they may show the following symptoms
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Sore throat
- Difficulty swallowing
- Ear pain
- Visible white or yellow lumps
Diagnosis
- Physical examination
Doctors typically examine tonsil stones through a physical examination. They may make the tonsils look red and swollen, with yellow or white deposits.
- Imaging techniques
At times, individuals may have all symptoms but the stone cannot be examined physically. In such special situations, an X-ray, CT Scan, MRI, or Endoscopic
examination may be required. Sometimes these stones may be diagnosed randomly in individuals with no
symptoms during routine dental check-ups.
Treatment Options
Home remedies
- Gargling with saltwater
- Gentle pressure with cotton swabs
- Water flossing
- Use of a non-alcoholic mouthwash to improve bad breath
Symptomatic treatment
Doctors may prescribe antibiotics, painkillers, and anti-inflammatory medicines under extreme symptoms. Indeed, when tonsil stones are deeply embedded and resistant to other treatments, medical professionals may recommend surgical interventions. These procedures can range from minimally invasive techniques to complete tonsil removal. Surgeons typically perform a tonsillectomy to remove the entire tonsil.
Tips for prevention
You can prevent tonsilloliths by maintaining good oral hygiene. Regular brushing and flossing help remove food particles and bacteria that can accumulate in the mouth and throat . To prevent tonsilloliths, you should avoid smoking. Drinking water at frequent intervals may also help prevent these stones.
Conclusion
Tonsilloliths or tonsil stones is common yet unknown to many. The tonsils gradually form these over a period of time. Poor oral hygiene, smoking, and a few other factors contribute to them. Many individuals with tonsil stones , don’t experience any symptoms. Although they are not a major risk, at times surgery may be required to get rid of them. Finally it is important to have a routine dental check up at least twice a year to diagnose this or any problem at the initial stage.
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