Many people don’t even realize they have tonsil stones, also called “tonsilloliths,” until they notice a strange taste, feel something rough in the back of their throat, or even catch a whiff of an unusual smell on their breath. Our dentists in Coffs Harbour are here to explain what these mysterious stones are.
Do you have a question about your smile or oral health? Ask our dentists in Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga, NSW, today. You can reach our Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre location in Coffs Harbour at (02) 6652-3242 or our Woolgoolga office at (02) 6654-0650
Now, let’s follow along as our dentist in Coffs Harbour dive into what tonsil stones are, why they form, and, most importantly, how to safely say goodbye to them!
What Are Tonsil Stones?
Your tonsils are the two soft, fleshy bits located at the back of your throat that help fight infection. Sometimes, food particles, dead cells, saliva, and bacteria get trapped in these crevices. Over time, these trapped bits of debris harden and form into little stones.
Tonsil stones can vary in size – some are as tiny as a grain of sand, while others can grow large enough to cause discomfort. And yes, they can definitely contribute to bad breath (which no one wants!).
Why Do Tonsil Stones Form?
Crevices in tonsils are inevitable, but some people have deeper pockets that tend to trap particles more easily. Factors like poor oral hygiene, chronic tonsil inflammation, and even the type of bacteria in your mouth can make tonsil stones more likely to form.
The good news? They’re usually harmless. The bad news? They can be annoying, especially when they create bad breath or give you that “something’s stuck in my throat” feeling.
How to Safely Remove Tonsil Stones
If tonsil stones are causing discomfort or just grossing you out, there are ways to safely remove them! Here’s what you can try:
Gargle with Warm Salt Water
Gargling with a salty solution can help loosen small tonsil stones. Our dentists in Coffs Harbour suggest mixing about half a teaspoon of table salt in 8 ounces of warm water and gargling for about 30 seconds. This method can also reduce any inflammation or discomfort in your tonsils. Plus, it’s easy to do!
Use a Cotton Swab (Gently!)
If you can see the tonsil stone, try gently nudging it with a clean cotton swab. Just be sure to use light pressure – your tonsils are sensitive, so be extra kind to them. Make sure you’re in a well-lit area, ideally with a mirror, so you can see what you’re doing.
Try a Water Flosser
If you have a water flosser, it can be a great tool for gently washing out tonsil stones. Set it to the lowest pressure, aim it at the tonsil area, and rinse carefully. The gentle stream of water can help dislodge stubborn stones without causing harm.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
According to our dentists in Coffs Harbour, brushing, flossing, and rinsing with antimicrobial mouthwash can keep your mouth clean and make it harder for stones to form in the first place. Good oral hygiene means fewer particles hanging around to create stones.
When to See a Professional
If tonsil stones keep coming back, feel large, or start causing pain, it might be time to see our dentists in Coffs Harbour or your primary care doctor. They can remove the stones more thoroughly and offer guidance on preventing future ones.
Visit Our Dentists in Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga, NSW, Today!
Experts believe that around 40% of the population develop tonsil stones. While they may be a nuisance, you can keep your mouth feeling fresh and free of those pesky stones with a few simple techniques and a little extra care.
Ask our dentists in Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga, NSW, for more information or schedule appointments here to keep your smile healthy and happy!
