Defining tonsil stones – Tonsil stones are small to medium sized deposits located in the back of the throat, lodged specifically in the tonsil tunnels, crevices and crypts. But the question is how to get rid of tonsil stones? Getting rid of them is no mess or fuss and can even be done at home.

Appearance – The stones differ in size from pea-sized to smaller. In very rare instances the stones can reach a very big and impossible-to-remove-yourself size. The lumps are uneven, range from white to yellow color and smell just plain terrible. The initial odor is not as bad as the gas released when the stones are crushed. The odors’ cause is directly linked to the sulphur and methyl content, resembling the gases that lead to general bad breath.

Where do the stones come from? – The stones are created by a combo of bacteria, mucous and debris that builds-up in the tonsils crypts. They originate from micro-orgasms, white blood cells that are dead, over-active saliva glands and food particles.

Is there any method of prevention? – Unfortunately, there are no medically identified methods of preventing tonsil stones. Prevention is limited to proper oral hygiene to prevent bacteria, mucous and debris build-up through regular flossing, brushing and gargling.

What are the symptoms? – No visible symptoms are present with the condition. It is only once the stones increase in size that you will see and know you have tonsil stones. CT scans and X-rays are popular methods employed to spot the deposits. Other common symptoms include a foul taste in your mouth, halitosis, painful throat, white debris, swallowing difficulty, tonsil swelling and back throat irritation.

Natural treatments – Natural treatments and remedies are always the preferred choice because of their ease and low expense. Feel free to use a clean finger, toothbrush, toothpick or an ear bud to dislodge the deposit. Please don’t poke the tonsil aggressively as it may lead to bleeding and even damage to the tonsil. Medicine droppers are also great for sucking out the stone from the crevasse. These methods are only suitable for patients who don’t have sensitive gag reflexes.

Pressurized dental irrigation also known as water piking or mere gargling with strong saltwater are also effective for stone removal. The mechanical movements caused by the water will dislodge the nasty deposits. Unfortunately these methods are only a temporary cure for a long term problem. If all else fails your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to clear tonsil infection instead of focusing on the root of the problem.

Surgical removal- Surgery should be the last treatment method considered as the procedure is very risky for older patients as well as being extremely painful. A tonsillectomy will not permanently cure bad breath due to the fact that halitosis is mainly caused by oral bacteria. The stones merely contribute to your breath problem.

Consult your physician – Although not life threatening, the stones can lead to a sore throat, blisters, discomfort, interfere with normal swallowing and is often blamed as a major cause of halitosis. It is always important to consult with your physician should the condition worsen, not clear up, cause any discomfort or before initiation of any treatment.