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Key Points
- Tonsil stones are small, hard deposits that form in the tonsils due to trapped bacteria and debris, causing discomfort and symptoms like bad breath and difficulty swallowing.
- Home remedies for tonsil stones include gargling with saltwater, using a water flosser, and trying natural remedies such as apple cider vinegar or garlic.
- If the tonsil stones are large, cause frequent sore throats or throat infections, or result in pain or difficulty breathing, it's advised to consult a doctor.
- Prevention of tonsil stones can be achieved through good oral hygiene, staying hydrated, and avoiding smoking.
Tonsil stones (also called “tonsilloliths”) are small, hard deposits that can form in the crevices of your tonsils. They typically form when bacteria, food particles, and other debris become trapped in the crevices of the tonsils, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Over time, these particles can harden and form small, hard deposits. People who have large tonsils or deep tonsil crevices are more likely to develop tonsil stones.
While they are not harmful, according to the Cleveland Clinic, they can be uncomfortable and cause unpleasant symptoms like bad breath, a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, a persistent cough, and ear pain. Fortunately, there are a few ways you can treat tonsil stones at home.
Home Remedies for Tonsil Stones
1. Gargling with Saltwater
Gargling with salt water can help dislodge tonsil stones and reduce inflamed tonsils according to Medical News Today. They note that you can mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle for 30 seconds before spitting it out. This can be repeated several times a day, according to Medical News Today.
2. Removing the Tonsil Stones with Gentle Pressure
If you can easily see the tonsil stones, you can try to remove them manually using gentle pressure on the tonsil. Medical News Today recommends using a cotton swab or a clean finger to gently press on the tonsil and push upward to dislodge the stone. Be careful not to push too hard and hurt yourself.
3. Flush Tonsil Crevices with a Water Flosser
Oral irrigators (also called “water flossers” or “water picks”) can help flush out tonsil stones or help flush out food particles and prevent tonsil stones from forming, according to Medical News Today. To try this method, fill the reservoir with warm water and aim the stream at the crevices of your tonsils where you typically find stones. They also note that you should use a low-pressure setting to avoid hurting yourself.
4. Use Non-Prescription Oral Antiseptics
Antiseptic mouthwashes and sprays can help kill the bacteria that cause tonsil stones and freshen your breath, according to Medical News Today.
5. Try Other Natural Remedies
Some people find relief from tonsil stones by using natural remedies. The following natural remedies are recommended by eMedicine Health:
- Gargling with apple cider vinegar
- Chewing on garlic or ginger
- Gargling with warm water mixed with honey
- Gargling warm water mixed with essential oils like lemongrass or cloves
- Chewing raw carrots
- Oil pulling (switch a tablespoon of oil such as olive oil or coconut oil in your mouth for about 10 minutes)
- Cleaning your tongue with a tongue scraper
- Eating foods that are high in probiotics like yogurt
When to See a Doctor for Tonsil Stones
Many cases of tonsil stones can be treated at home, according to the Cleveland Clinic, however, there are some situations where you should seek medical help. They recommend seeing a doctor in the following situations:
- Your tonsil stones are large and difficult to remove on your own
- You are having frequent sore throats or throat infections
- You are having pain or difficulty breathing
In these situations, your doctor may recommend surgical removal of the tonsil stones or the tonsils themselves.
Preventing Tonsil Stones
Keeping up with good oral hygiene is important for preventing tonsil stones. The Cleveland Clinic recommends that you brush your teeth and tongue regularly, as well as stay hydrated, and quit smoking if you do.
Summary
- Gargling with salt water can help dislodge tonsil stones and reduce inflammation.
- You can dislodge tonsil stones by applying gentle upward pressure on your tonsil with a clean finger or cotton swab. Additionally, you can try a water flosser on a low setting to try to dislodge the tonsil stone.
- Some home remedies like chewing on carrots, garlic, or ginger may help with tonsil stones. Using an antiseptic mouthwash can help keep bacteria levels in your mouth low, which also may help keep tonsil stones from forming.
Frequently asked questions
What are tonsil stones?
Tonsil stones are small, hard deposits that form in the tonsils due to trapped bacteria, food particles, and other debris.What symptoms can tonsil stones cause?
Tonsil stones can cause discomfort, bad breath, sore throat, difficulty swallowing, persistent cough, and ear pain.What home remedies can be used to treat tonsil stones?
Home remedies include gargling with saltwater, using a water flosser, and trying natural remedies like apple cider vinegar, garlic, or ginger.When should I see a doctor for tonsil stones?
You should see a doctor if the tonsil stones are large and difficult to remove, if you're experiencing frequent sore throats or throat infections, or if you're having pain or difficulty breathing.How can I prevent tonsil stones?
You can prevent tonsil stones by maintaining good oral hygiene, staying hydrated, and quitting smoking.Can tonsil stones cause ear pain?
Yes, tonsil stones can sometimes cause ear pain.Are tonsil stones harmful?
No, tonsil stones are not harmful but they can cause discomfort and unpleasant symptoms.What causes tonsil stones?
Tonsil stones are caused by trapped bacteria, food particles, and other debris in the tonsils.
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