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What are Tonsil Stones?
They are small hard lumps that form in spots in your tonsils.
They can have calcium, food particles, bacteria, and fungus in them.
They are usually small, but can be larger and look like white or yellow pebbles in your tonsils.
They are usually harmless, but can be annoying.
The medical term for them is tonsilliths.
Image Source: Sturz and Abby PediatricDentistry & Orthodontics.
What are the symptoms of tonsil stones?
They can cause bad breath.
They can cause sore throats.
They can cause earaches.
They can cause you to feel like you have something stuck in your throat.
They can cause you to cough.
They can cause trouble swallowing.
What causes tonsil stones?
Not consuming enough fluids to stay hydrated.
If you get lots of tonsil infections.
Being a teenager.
If you have large folds in your tonsils (this makes it easier for things to get stuck).
Chronic driainage from your child’s nose into your throat can lead to tonsil stones.
How do I know if I have tonsil stones?
Your child’s healthcare provider will check your child’s mouth and throat.
Your child’s dentist may notice them during a visit.
If you happen to look at your child’s throat you may notice them.
Rarely, imaging like an xray of a CT scan is needed.
What are the treatments for tonsils stones?
Try gargling with warm saltwater.
To make saltwater mix one cup warm water with ¼ to ½ tsp of any type of salt.
A waterpik/water flosser (what is used for dental care) may help remove them.
Coughing really hard, a few times in a row may help.
You can try to remove them by using a damp cotton swab.
If they are causing a lot of problems or reccurrent infections, your child’s healthcare provider may refer you to an ears nose and throat specialist.
A dentist may also be able to remove them.
How are tonsil stones prevented?
Make sure to brush your teeth regularly and floss.
Be sure to brush the tongue as well to keep the mouth clean.
Make sure to see your dentist twice a year, or as recommended by your dentist.
Make sure to keep your child hydrated.
Treat any sinus problems or allergies as recommended by your child’s primary healthcare provider.
Gargling with salt water after meals can help, if you know your child has tonsil stones.
📚 References
This content was adapted from Cleveland Clinic, EMedicineHealth. Images from Sturz and Abby Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics.
Reviewed by TT DO, JW MD, Patient Education Committee.