Tonsil stones are formed because of debris that builds up in your tonsils. They are usually small and do not require medical intervention. However, sometimes they can be large in size or more in number and require surgery. For people prone to tonsil stones, it is important that they practice good oral hygiene to keep their mouths free of debris and bad bacteria.
The good news is that you can practice measures to prevent their occurrence or reduce their growth. The only way to fully prevent tonsil stones is surgically removing your tonsils. This way, it won’t get infected again. However, doctors do not usually recommend surgery unless absolutely necessary. Consult with Ueno Center Dental Specialists today.
Tips to prevent tonsil stones
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Practice good oral hygiene.
Adherence to a strict oral care regimen is one of the most effective methods for combating tonsil stones. Be sure to brush your twice a day, use mouthwash, floss before bed, and clean your tongue. It is also important to rinse your mouth properly after every meal to ensure no food bits are stuck inside. All of these steps prevent debris from building up in your mouth, which is the cause of tonsil stones.
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Gargling.
If you are prone to tonsil stones, your doctor may suggest gargling to prevent the condition. Gargling thoroughly after every meal is the ideal way to clean your mouth of debris and ensure that there are no small food particles remaining inside. You can use water or mouthwash as per your choice. Both options help in cleaning your mouth. Many people argue that gargling with salt water or baking soda is more effective; experts say there is no difference in the results.
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Water pick.
If gargling and brushing are not enough to remove all particles from your mouth, you can use a water pick. Ideally, it is recommended to use a water pick after flossing to remove any extra debris that may have been loosened by the floss but did not successfully get removed. The force of the water in the water pick can flush it out.
How to tell if you have tonsil stones?
Small tonsil stones do not have symptoms, and you may not even notice they are there. However, potential symptoms include the following:
- white bumps on tonsils
- bad breath
- tonsil redness
- ear pain
- irritation in the throat
- trouble/pain while swallowing
Most tonsil stones do not require medical attention. However, if your tonsils appear red or you have ear pain, you may need to consult a doctor. It is also important to seek help for recurring tonsil stones.
