Have you seen a white or yellowish-colored dot or mark on the back of your throat? If you have, then you might have tonsil stones. Don’t worry, Tonsil stones are rare to develop and don’t pose serious health risks. They can cause minor issues such as sore throat, bad breath, discomfort, and a feeling of something stuck in your throat. If you notice tonsil stones also called tonsilloliths or tonsillitis on your tonsils and you’re looking for effective ways to deal with them quickly at home, you’re in the right place. Here are a few effective home remedies you can try.
What Causes Tonsil Stones
You may be wondering if you have tonsil stones and how to find out if you have tonsils. Well, it’s simple! Get a mirror, position it in front of your face and open your mouth wide in a way that you can see the back of your throat, and two glands called the tonsils.
Around the tonsils, you’ll see the pits and crypts (small crevices) that sometimes get clogged with bacteria, food, or other material. If this material gets stuck and hardens or calcifies, it can turn into a tonsil stone.
Do Tonsil Stones Cause Bad Breath?
Some people who have tonsil stones do complain about bad breath while in others, tonsils don’t cause any symptoms. You should know that having bad breath doesn’t mean you have tonsil stones. There are many other causes of bad breath or halitosis.
Home Remedies To Get Rid of Tonsil Stones Effectively.
Sometimes tonsil stones can go away on their own without any treatment. Doctors may recommend leaving them alone because they are not harmful, but If they do bother you, then below home remedies may help you deal with them.
1: Using a Water flosser
Using a water flosser to remove or dislodge tonsil stones is one of the best ways recommended by the dentist. An oral irrigator or water flosser can effectively flush out debris from your tonsil. Use a low-pressure setting to avoid causing injury to your tonsils.
2: Gargle with Salt Water
Salt water gargles can help relieve throat discomfort or pain, and can also help dislodge tonsil stones and reduce inflammation. Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water, and gargle for about 30 seconds. This can help break down the stones and ease discomfort and also get rid of bad breath odour caused by tonsil stones.
3: Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Maintaining proper oral hygiene can prevent the buildup of bacteria and debris that contribute to tonsil stones. Regular brushing, flossing, and using an antibacterial mouthwash can reduce the chances of tonsil stone formation. Also, consider using a tongue scraper to remove bacteria that can contribute to tonsil stones. Gargling with water after eating can be extremely useful in preventing food and debris from getting caught in the tonsillar.
4: Manual Removal
Many people will try to remove tonsil Stones manually using a cotton swab or the back of their toothbrush or other objects. Be cautious if you are to dislodge stones yourself. Push them forward, that’s towards the opening of your mouth, and away from your throat and putting pressure on the tonsils can also trigger the gag reflex in some people. To avoid injuring your tonsils, do not use a sharp object If you want to dislodge a stone yourself. Always try using a cotton swab.
5: Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) Rinse:
ACV contains acetic acid that can help break down tonsil stones. Mix one tablespoon of ACV with a cup of warm water and gargle with the mixture a few times a day.
6: Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water can help prevent the buildup of debris in your tonsils thereby reducing the chances of tonsil stone formation.
7: Avoid Dairy Products:
Dairy products can contribute to the formation of tonsil stones. So, cutting back on dairy consumption might help prevent their recurrence.
8: Seek Professional Help
If tonsil stones persist despite trying home remedies, consult a doctor or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They can recommend appropriate treatments, such as laser therapy or surgical removal.
Dealing with tonsil stones can be uncomfortable, but with these quick and effective methods, you can find relief and reduce their occurrence. Remember to practice good oral hygiene, stay hydrated, and seek professional advice if needed. By taking these steps to prevent and manage tonsil stones, you can enjoy better oral health and fresher breath.