Use a toothbrush You can also try to pull out the tonsil stones by brushing them with the backside of a toothbrush. However, gargle with warm salt water after this to prevent any possible bacterial infection. You should also brush your tongue often to reduce the excessive amount of bacteria in the mouth.
Also, it is good to use advanced dental products such as the Oral-B electric toothbrushes that can remove any tiny food particles and debris stuck in the mouth and prevent it from getting stuck around the tonsils.
In most cases, removing a tonsil stone can be done at home. Using a cotton swab, gently push on the tonsil, behind the stone, to force the stone out. Vigorous coughing and gargling can dislodge stones, as well. Once the stone is out, gargle with salt water, to remove any remaining bacteria.
Your tonsils are delicate, and you could cause bleeding or damage if you try to remove tonsil stones too aggressively. If the tonsil stones are causing significant pain or swelling, you should see your doctor.
Most tonsil stones clear up in 1-3 weeks on their own. Large stones may remain on the tonsils for many years if not removed by a doctor.
A warm saltwater gargle helps with swelling and discomfort. Gargling can even help dislodge the stone. Try a gargle of 1 teaspoon salt mixed with 8 ounces of water. Use a cotton swab to remove a tonsil stone that's bothering you.
Gargling with diluted apple cider vinegar (ACV) may help dislodge and break down the materials in the tonsil stones. To make this mixture, a person can mix 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with 1 cup of warm water. Gargling with this up to three times a day can help loosen stones.
Sometimes, tonsil stones dissolve or dislodge on their own in a short time. They may last for weeks if the bacteria continue to grow. If untreated, tonsil stones may last for years.
If you have a difficult time removing your tonsil stones at home or simply feel uneasy doing it yourself, then your dentist can remove them for you. Dentists typically remove tonsil stones by using a professional air or water syringe, or a simple tongue depressor.
Rinse regularly using a mouthwash, gently swishing alcohol-free mouthwash around your mouth helps kill bacteria and loosen tonsil stones.
Preventing Tonsil Stones
Brush your teeth twice a day or after meals: Use an anti-bacterial toothpaste like Crest Pro-Health to better neutralize plaque and limit the spread of oral bacteria into the throat.
Large tonsil stones can cause swollen tonsils and give you trouble swallowing. Tonsil stones can also sometimes trigger infections.
This can include avoiding certain foods, such as dairy products or sugary snacks, that can contribute to the formation of tonsil stones. You may also need to use a nasal spray or other medication to manage post-nasal drip or acid reflux.
Poor oral hygiene, as well as tobacco use, can increase the likelihood of tonsil stones. But in other individuals, it's the structure of the tonsils themselves that makes them more prone to developing tonsil stones.
Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water can keep tonsil stones from forming. Water can also increase natural saliva production and help to change the chemistry in your mouth.
Anyone can develop tonsil stones, but recurring strep throat (tonsillitis), viral infections or sinus issues, poor oral hygiene, and the shape and size of your tonsils may put you at greater risk for developing them.
Literature review shows that the largest tonsillolith was reported in a 12-year-old female child in the left tonsil and measured 4.2 × 3.6 × 2.1 cm.
Most tonsil stones are small, usually under 5mm across. The glands contain folds known as tonsillar crypts (folds). If your tonsillar crypts are enlarged, minerals such as calcium can become trapped, and calcify (harden) into stones.
Sometimes, people who develop a large, irritating tonsil stone or consistent and painful tonsil stones consult their doctor for other options. When home remedies are not enough, your doctor or dentist may recommend surgically removing your tonsils, known as a tonsillectomy.
If you can see tonsil stones in the back of your throat, you can try removing them with a cotton swab. Moisten the swab with water or a saline solution and gently press it against the tonsil stone, then push upwards to dislodge it.
Foods To Be Avoided
Alcohol and carbonated beverages must be avoided, as these beverages can cause intense pain, irritation, and burning sensation in the throat. Citrus fruits like oranges and lemons are acidic in nature, which may be too harsh on the throat and irritate the tonsils.
Halitosis: Bad breath is the most prevalent symptom of tonsil stones. Typically, the smell is sulfuric, like rotten eggs. Bad taste in mouth: You may experience a metallic taste in the back of the throat due to tonsil stones.