Tonsil stones are a collection of minerals solidified on the surface of the tonsils. Generally, tonsil stones are the size of a pebble and are yellowish white in color. Although not dangerous, the appearance of these stones can cause bad breath and pain in the mouth and throat area.
Tonsil stones can occur in anyone who still has tonsils (tonsils), which are pads of tissue on both sides of the back of the mouth. The frequency of the appearance of these stones is quite diverse. Some people can experience it repeatedly even with the number of stones more than one.
Various Causes of Tonsil Stones
Tonsil stones are formed from the buildup of bacteria, food debris, dead skin cells, saliva, and plaque in the mouth, in the cracks on the surface of the tonsils. Over time, these piles can settle and become solid, like rock.
There are several conditions that are considered to cause the formation of tonsil stones, namely:
Large or stony tonsil structure
When the tonsils have a lot of recesses, or if they have a large enough fissure, the dirt in the mouth can easily get stuck. This dirt over time can settle and harden into stone.
Bad dental and oral care
If you are lazy to keep your teeth and mouth clean, various bacteria and other debris that can form tonsil stones will be easier to accumulate.
Recurrent tonsillitis or infection
People who often experience tonsillitis will generally experience enlargement of the size of the tonsils. This can make it easier for tonsil stones to form, because bacteria and food debris are more likely to get stuck and settle on the tonsils.
How to Recognize Tonsil Stones
The easiest way to tell if you have tonsil stones is to open your mouth wide in front of a mirror and see if the back of your tonsils has lumps or raised, yellowish-white patches. Tonsil stones can be chewy or hard in texture.
If you don't find the lump, it doesn't mean you are free from tonsil stones. Some stones are so small that they cannot be seen with the naked eye. Therefore, also observe the following symptoms:
- Bad breath for no apparent reason.
- Sore throat that often recurs and does not go away.
- Discomfort, like something is stuck in the back of the mouth.
- Difficulty swallowing.
- Continuous cough.
- Ear aches or pains.
If you experience any of the above symptoms, you may have tonsil stones. To be sure, you need to see a doctor.
How to Overcome Tonsil Stones
If tonsil stones continue to cause discomfort, you can try the following ways to deal with them:
Push with cotton or finger
If the rock is visible and you can reach it, try gently pushing it with your finger or a cotton swab to lift it up and off. Avoid picking them with rough or sharp tools, such as a toothbrush or toothpick, as this can cause sores and infection of the tonsils.
Gargle (gargle)
Try gargling vigorously or spraying water on the tonsil stones. The pressure of the water can help push the tonsil stones up and down. In addition to plain water, you can also use mouthwash or salt water to make it more effective. Salt water can help get rid of bad breath caused by this condition.
Cough on purpose
The push that occurs when you cough can help soften and release tonsil stones. Therefore, try to cough a few times quite loudly. But if that doesn't work, don't keep coughing, because you risk injuring your throat and triggering inflammation.
If the size of the stone is too large and continues to cause complaints, you should consult a doctor. The doctor may need to perform minor surgery to remove the tonsil stones.
So that tonsil stones do not appear again, take preventive measures by regularly brushing your teeth 2 times a day and diligently using mouthwash. In addition, avoid bad habits that can interfere with oral health, such as consuming alcohol and smoking.