What Are Tonsil Stones?
Also known as tonsilloliths, these hard formations can develop in the folds of your tonsils, also called ‘crypts’. Tonsil stones are typically made up of bacteria, dead cells, food debris, and mucus. They tend to be small — about the size of a piece of gravel. 1,2
While generally harmless, tonsil stones can cause discomfort and bad breath.3 Understanding what causes throat stones, recognizing their symptoms, and knowing how to get rid of them can help you manage the issue effectively. Let’s dive in:
How Tonsil Stones Form
Where do tonsil stones come from? Tonsil stones form when various types of debris — such as food particles, dead cells, and bacteria — get trapped in the tonsil folds. Over time, this debris can harden and calcify, leading to the formation of small, firm stones.4
Appearance and Size
Tonsil stones can vary in size, from tiny grains to larger, more noticeable formations. They typically appear white or yellow and can sometimes be visible at the back of the throat.1,7
Relation To Tonsil Anatomy
The unique structure of the tonsils, with their deep crypts and folds, contribute to the formation of tonsil stones. These crypts provide an ideal environment for debris to accumulate and harden. While reasons for tonsil stones can vary, you may be more susceptible if you have more pronounced or numerous tonsil crypts.7,8
What Causes Tonsil Stones?
How do people get tonsil stones? Knowing the main causes can help you take charge of the situation and reduce any discomfort. Here are key factors to be aware of:
Poor Oral Hygiene
Regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing are crucial for keeping your mouth clean and to prevent the buildup of debris — not to mention bad breath.1
Tonsil Size and Shape
The size and shape of your tonsils can influence the formation of tonsil stones. Larger or irregularly shaped tonsils may have more nooks and crannies, which can more easily trap debris.1,3,13
Chronic Tonsillitis
Frequent tonsil infections, known as chronic tonsillitis, can also contribute to the development of tonsil stones. When tonsils are repeatedly enlarged from infection, small holes that trap debris can develop from the swelling 3,13
Symptoms of Tonsil Stones
Bad Breath
Unfortunately, bad breath and tonsil stones often go together. In fact, one of the most common and noticeable symptoms you may experience is persistent bad breath, also known as halitosis.5
This unpleasant tonsil stone odor can be frustrating. Thankfully, reevaluating your oral hygiene routine to ensure proper techniques and incorporating an effective, germ-killing mouthrinse may help.13
For more information on different types of bad breath and how to manage them, check out this article.
White or Yellow Spots in the Throat
Tonsil stones often appear as small white or yellow spots in the back of your throat. These spots can sometimes be visible when you open your mouth wide, and they may look like protruding lumps.1,7
Throat Irritation
Many people with tonsil stones experience throat irritation, which can manifest as a feeling of discomfort, soreness, or itching in the back of the throat.1,3
Ear Pain
Interestingly, tonsil stones can sometimes cause ear pain. If you experience unexplained ear pain, it might be worth checking for the presence of tonsil stones.3
Difficulty Swallowing
Larger tonsil stones can obstruct the throat, making it difficult to swallow. This can lead to a feeling of something being stuck, which can be both uncomfortable and concerning. If you experience significant difficulty swallowing, it's important to consult a healthcare professional.1,3
How To Get Rid of Tonsil Stones
There are several treatment options available, from home remedies for tonsil stones to professional interventions:
How To Get Rid of Tonsil Stones at Home
Saltwater gargles: Gargling with warm saltwater is a simple way to dislodge tonsil stones. To prepare a solution, mix one teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm (not hot!) water.6,13
Oral irrigator: Also referred to as a water flosser, these tools can be useful for flushing out tonsil stones. The gentle stream of water may help dislodge them. Simply fill a water flosser with lukewarm water and set it to a low-pressure setting. Aim the stream at the affected area and gently flush out the debris.7
Professional Treatments
Tonsillectomy: A tonsillectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the tonsils. This is typically considered a last resort for those who suffer from chronic tonsil stones or frequent tonsillitis. The surgery can provide a long-term solution to the problem.7
Laser treatment: Laser treatment is a less invasive option. This procedure uses a laser to remove the stones and can be performed in a doctor’s office. The laser resurfaces the tonsils to avoid issues in the future, helping to break down the stones in the process. They can also reduce the size of the tonsil crypts where the stones form.8
How To Prevent Tonsil Stones
With tonsil stones, preventionis key. While you can’t always fully keep them from forming, here are practical tips to help reduce their occurrence:
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is the first line of defense when thinking about how to stop tonsil stones from forming. It's also key to maintaining oral health and keeping your breath fresh. Make sure to:
Brush your teeth at least twice a day, using a fluoride toothpaste.
Floss daily to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth.
Rinse with mouthwash to kill bacteria brushing leaves behind.9
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water is essential for maintaining a healthy mouth. Water helps stimulate saliva production, which can naturally wash away bacteria and debris.15
Avoid Smoking and Alcohol
Smoking and alcohol consumption can have a negative impact on your oral health and contribute to conditions that increase susceptibility to tonsil stone formation. They can disrupt the oral microbiome (the community of microorganisms in the mouth) and reduce saliva production.10-12
Add Mouthwash To Your Oral Hygiene Routine
If you’re considering enhancing your oral hygiene regimen with a mouthrinse, swishing with an antibacterial option can help reduce bacteria buildup while minimizing bad breath.14
As the #1 dentist-recommended brand among all mouthwash brands, LISTERINE® has options like:
TOTAL CARE Alcohol Free Mouthwash with fluoride: 5x more cleaning power vs brushing and flossing alone* (*based on bad breath germs).
Clinical Solutions Breath Defense Alcohol Free Mouthwash: Featuring odor-neutralizing technology, this alcohol-free mouthwash kills bad breath germs, purifies odor molecules, and prevents bad breath.
COOL MINT® Alcohol Free Mouthwash for Bad Breath: With a less intense minty flavor, no other alcohol-free mouthwash has been proven more effective at killing bad-breath germs.
When To See a Doctor for Professional Tonsillolith Treatment
While many cases can be managed with home remedies or by simply doing nothing, there are certain situations where it's important to seek professional medical advice on how to heal tonsil stones. Here are some signs that indicate it's time to see a doctor:
Discomfort When Swallowing
Tonsil stones can sometimes grow large enough to cause discomfort when swallowing. A doctor can examine you and determine the best course of action to alleviate your symptoms.1,3,6
Pain or Swelling
Pain or swelling in the throat can be a sign that tonsil stones are causing irritation or infection. If you experience these symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can provide appropriate treatment, such as antibiotics or other interventions, to manage the discomfort and prevent further complications.1,3,6
Frequently Asked Questions About Tonsil Stones
Do Tonsil Stones Cause Bad Breath?
Yes, tonsil stones can cause bad breath due to the smelly volatile sulfur compounds released by the bacteria and debris they contain.7
Are Tonsil Stones Contagious?
No, tonsil stones are not contagious. They form due to a buildup of bacteria and debris in tonsil crevices.3
How Long Do Tonsil Stones Last?
Tonsil stones can last from a few days to several weeks, depending on their size and your body's ability to dislodge them.1
How Do You Get Rid of Tonsil Stones?
You can remove tonsil stones with home remedies like saltwater gargles or using an oral irrigator. For persistent issues, consult a doctor for professional treatments.1,7
What’s the Best Mouthwash To Reduce Bacteria?
Choosing a mouthwash with antimicrobial properties can help reduce bacteria in the mouth. Consider ingredients like essential oils, which are effective in fighting harmful germs.14
Can Tonsil Stones Be Prevented?
Maintaining good oral hygiene and staying hydrated can help reduce the likelihood of tonsil stones forming.1,3,6
References
Harvard Health. Ever hear of tonsil stones?
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Yohana W, Pramesti HT, Rachmawati E. Palatine Tonsillolith as a Cause of Halitosis. J Adv Med Dent Scie Res 2019;7(6): 103-105
American Family Physician. Tonsil Stones.
Mayo Clinic. Tuesday Q and A: Self-care steps may help prevent tonsil stones from returning.
Yosef P. Krespi, Victor Kizhner. Laser tonsil cryptolysis: In-office 500 cases review, American Journal of Otolaryngology, Volume 34, Issue 5, 2013, Pages 420-424, ISSN 0196-0709, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amjoto.2013.03.006.
Ilg D, Junker L, McGuire JA, Mordas CJ, Queiroz D, Ricci-Nittel D, Charles C. In vivo efficacy of an alcohol-free essential oil containing mouthrinse. J Dent Hyg. 2012;86(1):51.
Marsh PD, Do T, Beighton D, Devine DA. Influence of saliva on the oral microbiota. Periodontal Research. 2016;70(1):80-92. doi:10.1111/prd.12098
Kondru VL. Smoking, Alcohol Consumption, and Periodontitis: A Comprehensive Review of the Association and Implications for Oral Health. Journal of Oral Health and Research. 2016;1(1).
Gajendra S, McIntosh S, Ghosh S. Effects of tobacco product use on oral health and the role of oral healthcare providers in cessation: A narrative review. Tob Induc Dis. 2023;21(1):12. doi:10.18332/tid/157203
Mayo Clinic. All About Tonsil Stones.
Alshehri FA. The use of mouthwash containing essential oils (LISTERINE®) to improve oral health: A systematic review. Saudi Dent J. 2018;30(1):2-6. doi:10.1016/j.sdentj.2017.12.004
University of Illinois, Chicago College of Dentistry. 4 Ways Drinking Water Improves Your Smile.
