Many people have often experienced discomfort in the back of their throat, but can’t figure out why. If this feeling does not go away quickly, they may have a tonsil stone that they are unaware of. Tonsil stones are nothing more than small calcified deposits that develop in the crevices. They blend in with the tissues of the throat, making them difficult to see. Fortunately, a person can use one of several methods to remove the stones and relieve the irritation they cause.
Finding the Tonsil Stone
The first step in removing the irritation is locating the tonsil stone. These stones are typically minor, white or yellowish, and are more than simply an irritation. They can cause bad breath and lead to an infection, so finding them quickly is essential. However, the person must confirm they are dealing with tonsil stones. Then, you can go about removing tonsil stones you can’t see.
Tonsil Stone Symptoms
Determining whether you have tonsil stones isn’t tricky. Anyone with persistent bad breath should consider tonsil stones to be the culprit. Bacteria live on tonsil stones, causing the foul odor.
Individuals with tonsil stones often have sore throats because the stones irritate the throat, leading to inflammation and discomfort. If a stone is large, the person may feel as if something is stuck in their throat and may find it painful to swallow. Tonsil stones can also cause ear pain. If you have an unexplained earache, a tonsil stone might be to blame. When looking for the stone, start on that side of the throat.
Locating the Stones
Grab a flashlight and a mirror to begin examining the tonsils for stones. A small mirror, such as a dental mirror, makes it easy to see the back of the throat and look for the stones. However, ensure this mirror is clean and easy to maneuver.
Stand in front of a mirror and open your mouth. Shine the light into the mouth, ensuring it illuminates the back of your throat. Look at both sides of the throat to see if there are any white or yellow spots or any protrusions that are generally not there. These may be tonsil stones that need to be addressed.
When examining the throat, move the tongue to visualize the tonsil crypts. The goal is to look for any areas of accumulation or hard formations that are generally not present. If any spots are found, it is time to move on to the next step.
Thoroughly wash your hands to ensure they are clean, as you don’t want to introduce bacteria into the throat. Using a clean tool or your finger, gently press the potential tonsil stones. Use only light pressure and move the finger or tool around in circular motions to locate any discomfort or abnormalities. The stones may be sore or painful when they are touched.
If nothing is found during the exam, it may be time to see a healthcare professional. They can look for tonsil stones and determine the best course of treatment if any are found. This condition is not one anyone should live with, as it is easily treatable. Make an appointment today if you believe you have tonsil stones but cannot find them yourself.
Removing Tonsil Stones
If tonsil stones are found, it’s time to try to remove them. Several home remedies can be used to treat stones. Fortunately, most people already have these items at home so that they can begin treatment immediately.
The first thing a person might try to address the tonsil stones is to gargle with salt water. The salt in the water reduces inflammation while killing bacteria, and the warm water soothes a sore throat. Making salt water is easy. Simply add half a teaspoon of salt to an 8-oz glass of warm water. Start this mixture until the salt dissolves. Take small sips and gargle them for 30 seconds to remove the tonsil stones. Continue this process until the glass is finished, and repeat twice a day or after each meal. After gargling, gently use a cotton swab to remove the stone.
When no salt water is available, a cotton swab can be used to press on the stone and see if it dislodges gently. If the stone does dislodge, carefully remove it, then rinse the mouth with water or mouthwash. Doing so removes any leftover debris. If using this method, never scrape or scratch your tonsils. Doing so could result in an infection.
Apple cider vinegar may be used in place of salt water. Add one tablespoon of the vinegar to 8 oz of warm water, then gargle. Focus on the back of the throat and continue to gargle for up to 2 minutes before spitting out the liquid. Follow up with the plain water rinse, and repeat twice daily. This method will take a few days before results are seen.
If you have raw garlic at home, you may use it to fight tonsil stones. The garlic kills bacteria and reduces the risk of stone formation. These home remedies can be used to see if they will address the problem.
Medical Treatment
If home remedies do not remove the small, hard calcifications, you need to see a medical professional. The ENT specialist can treat the tonsil stones to remove them quickly and effectively. The ENT may recommend one of several treatments.
A tonsillectomy may be recommended if tonsil stones are the only problem you are dealing with, if large tonsils cause significant discomfort, or if this procedure is best for treating the tonsil stones. General anesthesia is needed for the surgery, and a person’s recovery time will vary based on many factors.
Today, many people opt for laser removal of the tonsil stones. The laser energy breaks down the stones before they are removed. The procedure is very effective for smaller tonsil stones and individuals who do not want to take on the risks associated with a tonsillectomy. There is little to no downtime with this procedure.
Cubulation is another option. The medical professional uses radio frequency energy to eliminate the stones. A thin wand is placed into the tonsil pockets before the energy is applied. The stones will be broken down before they are suctioned out of the mouth. This procedure is safe and effective, with minimal discomfort and a rapid recovery.
Many people can address their tonsil stones at home. The home remedies do not work; it is time to see an ENT specialist. These medical professionals will determine the best procedure to remove the stones and resolve the problem so that you can have a clean, healthy mouth once again.
