Tonsil stones (scientifically referred to as tonsiloliths) are deposits of hardened calcium, mucus and bacteria that form in pockets of the tonsils. The various compounds that make up the tonsil stone can form individually or in clusters and are located in a crypt of the tonsil, which is a concave, pocket-like structure on the surface of the tonsil.

For the most part, tonsil stones are benign. Most people cannot identify them on their own and it usually takes a dentist to spot the stones for the first time. However, if you are aware of the symptoms, you can spot and remove the tonsil stones on your own, using over-the-counter products from TheraBreath®.

Tonsil stones range in color from white to light brown and are typically no larger than half a millimeter. The tonsil stones typically occur in adults between the ages of 20 and 40. Very rarely are children or seniors diagnosed with having tonsil stones. To learn more, read our article here on tonsil stones.

TheraBreath® Video on How to Remove Tonsil Stones

Symptoms of Tonsil Stones

The majority of people who suffer from tonsil stones will exhibit multiple symptoms, with the most prevalent being chronic bad breath. The bad breath is caused by the bacteria and other compounds trapped inside the pocket of the tonsils. Other than bad breath, many people will not be aware that they have any sort of condition.

Some of the other less common symptoms of tonsil stones include lack of energy as well as dizziness. Swollen tonsils and difficulty in swallowing can also occur, particularly if the stones have gotten to a larger than average size, thus blocking the throat area. Another symptom includes a metallic taste in your mouth, which is caused by very small secretions of chemicals and other substances inside the tonsil stones. It is important to get rid of tonsil stones as well as the other symptoms that may be causing oral health issues.

Causes of Tonsil Stones

Tonsils are designed to trap airborne particles that enter the mouth from entering the body via the throat. The tonsils are not always the best filters and therefore may end up holding onto tiny bits of particles regardless of whether they are harmful or benign. When not disposed of, these particles settle into the pockets along the tonsils. Over time, as these pockets build up with more particles, they become hardened and calcify. This causes the particles to become tonsil stones and remain lodged in the pockets and crevasses of the tonsils. TheraBreath® has created a complete line of oral care products to remove tonsil stones. Click here to view TheraBreath® Tonsil Stone Removal Solutions.

How to Remove Tonsil Stones

Accessing tonsil stones is key to removal with at home treatment methods. Being that tonsil stones are typically located in the pockets of the tonsils and on the outside of the tonsil, using oral rinse, throat spray or a device to knock them loose will effectively remove the stone.

Home remedies for removing tonsil stones are simple depending on the size of the tonsil stones and how far lodged the stone is into the tonsil. Gargling with salt water and then using a finger or cotton swab can often remedy the situation. Pushing on the bottom of the tonsil or using a waterpik can often dislodge the stone as well. Small stones can be brushed out with a toothbrush while larger ones may need to be removed at the doctors office as a quick outpatient procedure.

TheraBreath® provides a complete line of products for people that are new to tonsil stones and also for people with more chronic tonsil stone issues.

Summary on Removing Tonsil Stones

Tonsil stones are a treatable and avoidable condition that can cause embarrassing bad breath. Proper brushing of the teeth and tongue, along with the use of oral rinse and throat spray is the best way to prevent tonsil stones. If you do have tonsil stones, be assured that they can be removed and prevented with Therabreath® tonsil stone solutions.