Tonsil Stones: Causes, Symptoms, and How To Get Rid of Them

Also known as tonsilloliths, these hard formations can develop in the folds of your tonsils, also called ‘crypts’. Tonsil stones are typically made up of bacteria, dead cells, food debris, and mucus. They tend to be small — about the size of a piece of gravel. ^1,2

While generally harmless, tonsil stones can cause discomfort and bad breath.³ Understanding what causes throat stones, recognizing their symptoms, and knowing how to get rid of them can help you manage the issue effectively. Let’s dive in:

How Tonsil Stones Form

Where do tonsil stones come from? Tonsil stones form when various types of debris — such as food particles, dead cells, and bacteria — get trapped in the tonsil folds. Over time, this debris can harden and calcify, leading to the formation of small, firm stones.⁴

Appearance and Size

Tonsil stones can vary in size, from tiny grains to larger, more noticeable formations. They typically appear white or yellow and can sometimes be visible at the back of the throat.^1,7

Relation To Tonsil Anatomy

The unique structure of the tonsils, with their deep crypts and folds, contribute to the formation of tonsil stones. These crypts provide an ideal environment for debris to accumulate and harden. While reasons for tonsil stones can vary, you may be more susceptible if you have more pronounced or numerous tonsil crypts.^7,8

What Causes Tonsil Stones?

How do people get tonsil stones? Knowing the main causes can help you take charge of the situation and reduce any discomfort. Here are key factors to be aware of:

Poor Oral Hygiene

Regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing are crucial for keeping your mouth clean and to prevent the buildup of debris — not to mention bad breath. ¹

Tonsil Size and Shape

The size and shape of your tonsils can influence the formation of tonsil stones. Larger or irregularly shaped tonsils may have more nooks and crannies, which can more easily trap debris.^1,3,13

Chronic Tonsillitis

Frequent tonsil infections, known as chronic tonsillitis, can also contribute to the development of tonsil stones. When tonsils are repeatedly enlarged from infection, small holes that trap debris can develop from the swelling ^3,13

Symptoms of Tonsil Stones

Bad Breath

Unfortunately, bad breath and tonsil stones often go together. In fact, one of the most common and noticeable symptoms you may experience is persistent bad breath, also known as halitosis.⁵

This unpleasant tonsil stone odor can be frustrating. Thankfully, reevaluating your oral hygiene routine to ensure proper techniques and incorporating an effective, germ-killing mouthrinse may help.¹³

For more information on different types of bad breath and how to manage them, check out this article.

White or Yellow Spots in the Throat

Tonsil stones often appear as small white or yellow spots in the back of your throat. These spots can sometimes be visible when you open your mouth wide, and they may look like protruding lumps.^1,7

Throat Irritation

Many people with tonsil stones experience throat irritation, which can manifest as a feeling of discomfort, soreness, or itching in the back of the throat.^1,3

Ear Pain

Interestingly, tonsil stones can sometimes cause ear pain. If you experience unexplained ear pain, it might be worth checking for the presence of tonsil stones.³

Difficulty Swallowing

Larger tonsil stones can obstruct the throat, making it difficult to swallow. This can lead to a feeling of something being stuck, which can be both uncomfortable and concerning. If you experience significant difficulty swallowing, it's important to consult a healthcare professional.^1,3

How To Get Rid of Tonsil Stones

There are several treatment options available, from home remedies for tonsil stones to professional interventions:

How To Get Rid of Tonsil Stones at Home

Saltwater gargles: Gargling with warm saltwater is a simple way to dislodge tonsil stones. To prepare a solution, mix one teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm (not hot!) water.^6,13

Oral irrigator: Also referred to as a water flosser, these tools can be useful for flushing out tonsil stones. The gentle stream of water may help dislodge them. Simply fill a water flosser with lukewarm water and set it to a low-pressure setting. Aim the stream at the affected area and gently flush out the debris.⁷

Professional Treatments

Tonsillectomy: A tonsillectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the tonsils. This is typically considered a last resort for those who suffer from chronic tonsil stones or frequent tonsillitis. The surgery can provide a long-term solution to the problem.⁷

Laser treatment: Laser treatment is a less invasive option. This procedure uses a laser to remove the stones and can be performed in a doctor’s office. The laser resurfaces the tonsils to avoid issues in the future, helping to break down the stones in the process. They can also reduce the size of the tonsil crypts where the stones form.⁸

How To Prevent Tonsil Stones

With tonsil stones, preventionis key. While you can’t always fully keep them from forming, here are practical tips to help reduce their occurrence:

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene is the first line of defense when thinking about how to stop tonsil stones from forming. It's also key to maintaining oral health and keeping your breath fresh. Make sure to:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day, using a fluoride toothpaste.

• Floss daily to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth.

• Rinse with mouthwash to kill bacteria brushing leaves behind.⁹

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is essential for maintaining a healthy mouth. Water helps stimulate saliva production, which can naturally wash away bacteria and debris.¹⁵

Avoid Smoking and Alcohol

Smoking and alcohol consumption can have a negative impact on your oral health and contribute to conditions that increase susceptibility to tonsil stone formation. They can disrupt the oral microbiome (the community of microorganisms in the mouth) and reduce saliva production.^10-12

Add Mouthwash To Your Oral Hygiene Routine

If you’re considering enhancing your oral hygiene regimen with a mouthrinse, swishing with an antibacterial option can help reduce bacteria buildup while minimizing bad breath.¹⁴

As the #1 dentist-recommended brand among all mouthwash brands, LISTERINE® has options like:

Clinical Solutions Breath Defense Alcohol-Free Mouthwash: Featuring odor-neutralizing technology, this alcohol-free mouthwash kills germs, purifies odor molecules, and prevents bad breath.

COOL MINT® Alcohol-Free Mouthwash for Bad Breath: With a less intense minty flavor, no other alcohol-free mouthwash has been proven more effective at killing bad-breath germs.

ULTRACLEAN® Tartar Control Antiseptic Mouthwash: Clinically proven to kill 99.9% of germs that cause bad breath, plaque, swollen gums, and gingivitis.

When To See a Doctor for Professional Tonsillolith Treatment

While many cases can be managed with home remedies or by simply doing nothing, there are certain situations where it's important to seek professional medical advice on how to heal tonsil stones. Here are some signs that indicate it's time to see a doctor:

Discomfort When Swallowing

Tonsil stones can sometimes grow large enough to cause discomfort when swallowing. A doctor can examine you and determine the best course of action to alleviate your symptoms.^1,3,6

Pain or Swelling

Pain or swelling in the throat can be a sign that tonsil stones are causing irritation or infection. If you experience these symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can provide appropriate treatment, such as antibiotics or other interventions, to manage the discomfort and prevent further complications.^1,3,6

Frequently Asked Questions About Tonsil Stones

Do Tonsil Stones Cause Bad Breath?

Yes, tonsil stones can cause bad breath due to the smelly volatile sulfur compounds released by the bacteria and debris they contain.⁷

Are Tonsil Stones Contagious?

No, tonsil stones are not contagious. They form due to a buildup of bacteria and debris in tonsil crevices.³

How Long Do Tonsil Stones Last?

Tonsil stones can last from a few days to several weeks, depending on their size and your body's ability to dislodge them.¹

How Do You Get Rid of Tonsil Stones?

You can remove tonsil stones with home remedies like saltwater gargles or using an oral irrigator. For persistent issues, consult a doctor for professional treatments.^1,7

What’s the Best Mouthwash To Reduce Bacteria?

Choosing a mouthwash with antimicrobial properties can help reduce bacteria in the mouth. Consider ingredients like essential oils, which are effective in fighting harmful germs.¹⁴

Can Tonsil Stones Be Prevented?

Maintaining good oral hygiene and staying hydrated can help reduce the likelihood of tonsil stones forming.^1,3,6