It is possible, although very rare, that the tonsils will grow back. A tonsillectomy is safe, but it can cause throat pain for several days after surgery. Like all surgeries, tonsillectomy carries some risks. These include bleeding, infection, swelling-related breathing difficulties, and, very rarely, life-threatening reactions to anesthesia. If tonsil stones are only a minor irritation, the risks and stress of surgery might outweigh the benefits.
Preventing the growth of tonsil stones completely is almost impossible. For people who have chronic tonsillitis, a tonsillectomy may be the only way to prevent tonsil stones. However, good oral hygiene, including frequent brushing and flossing, can help. Irrigating the tonsils and mouth with a water sprayer can remove debris and bacteria, reducing the risk of tonsil stones. A number of other conditions can cause pain in or near the tonsils.
A doctor can help determine what causes tonsil stones. An otolaryngologist, commonly known as an ear, nose, and throat doctor, can treat most tonsil and throat conditions.
The tonsils and adenoids play a role in helping the body fight infection, but they can become enlarged and require treatment. Learn more. Tonsil cysts may cause no symptoms and are generally no cause for concern. But a doctor should rule out other, similar health issues. Learn more here. These bumps can be the size of a piece of gravel, or, in more rare cases, large enough to interfere with swallowing or breathing, says Aaron Thatcher, MD , assistant professor with the department of otolaryngology—head and neck surgery at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.
They may also be so small or embedded so deeply in the tissue of the tonsils that they are not visible. They can be squishy or hard, and are typically pale-yellow in color. While tonsil stones may be troublesome, they are generally not harmful. And they are not a sign of cancer or another illness.
Still, tonsil stones can be uncomfortable. People who are prone to tonsil stones can experience chronic discomfort and bad breath — two common symptoms in people who have tonsil stones. Tonsils are the oval-shaped pads in the back of the throat.
A common misconception is that tonsil stones are caused by not practicing good oral hygiene. But the truth is that people who brush, floss, and take good care of their teeth and gums can still develop tonsil stones. Tonsil stones rarely cause larger health complications. However, sometimes they can grow into larger formations that can cause your tonsils to swell, and they often have an unpleasant odor. Your tonsils are made up of crevices, tunnels, and pits called tonsil crypts.
Different types of debris, such as dead cells, mucus, saliva, and food, can get trapped in these pockets and build up. Bacteria and fungi feed on this buildup and cause a distinct odor. Over time, the debris hardens into a tonsil stone. Some people may have only one tonsil stone, while others have many smaller formations. Although some tonsil stones may be difficult to see, they can still cause noticeable symptoms.
Symptoms of tonsil stones can include:. If you have tonsil stones, they may occur on a regular basis. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent them. These steps include:. Most tonsilloliths are harmless, but many people want to remove them because they can smell bad or cause discomfort. Treatments range from home remedies to medical procedures. Gargling vigorously with salt water can ease throat discomfort and may help dislodge tonsil stones. Salt water may also help to change your mouth chemistry.
It can also help get rid of the odor tonsil stones can cause. You may first discover that you have tonsil stones when you cough one up. Energetic coughing can help loosen stones. Removing the stones yourself with rigid items like a toothbrush is not recommended. See what our experts have to say about the ProForm Treadmills and how they stack up to similar products. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect.
Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph. Natural remedies Symptoms photos Precautions Summary We include products we think are useful for our readers. Overview Tonsil stones, also known as tonsilloliths, are calcified masses that can form on your palatine tonsils.
There are three types of tonsils: palatine — on the sides of your throat pharyngeal — at the back of your throat lingual — found at the back, or base, of your tongue What most people call their tonsils are the palatine tonsils, which you can see at the back of your mouth or top of your throat. Some complications caused by tonsil stones may include: swelling feeling of an obstruction at the top of your throat foul smell and bad breath from the infection that increases over time difficulty breathing if they become big enough to block the airway pain when swallowing, eating, or drinking.
How to remove tonsil stones at home. Signs you may have tonsil stones. Tonsil stone photos. Read this next. Medically reviewed by Judith Marcin, M. Peritonsillar Abscess.
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