What the Heck are Tonsil Stones?

Tonsils apparently evolved to protect us from bacteria and viruses. They don't work very well in our modern world. People with tonsillectomys don't get any more colds than people with tonsils.

 The nooks and crannies that are supposed to catch bacteria can sometimes cause other problems. One problem is tonsil stones. The same bacteria that cause plaque can build up and trap other debris like dead cells and food. This glob can then become calcified like tarter.

Many people aren't even aware that they have tonsil stones. They are often discovered on an xray or CT scan like a dental panoramic. They aren't that rare, we see them all the time. They can become irritating and cause a sore throat, irritation with swallowing, or a scratchy feeling.

 Sometimes people can cough out the stone if it bothers them. Some can pick them out with a Q-Tip. Don't use anything sharp to poke them out! You don't want to make your tonsils bleed. A water pik may be the best way to get them out. Search for 'water flosser' on Amazon. My favorite connects to the shower head. A tonsillectomy will prevent stones but may not be worth it. Rinsing and gargling with warm salt water can help loosen them.

Bad breath from the bacteria is sometimes a result. Gargling with an antiseptic mouthwash can be helpful. BreathRx has zinc and a POWERFUL mint flavor. CloSys has chlorine dioxide and a mild mint flavor. Listerine has essential oils, is widely available and inexpensive. They can help to prevent the growth of the stones.

ENTs have used lasers or 'radiofrequency coblation' for 'tonsil resurfacing.'  The idea was to zap off the dimples on the tonsils. These procedures have not become widely used.