What are Tonsil Stones?
Have you ever seen yellow/white lumps that look like they are embedded in the back of your throat? These are called tonsil stones, which are calcified deposits of debris and bacteria. They are most commonly found in the areas of the tonsils that are red, bumpy, or swollen.
What Causes Tonsil Stones?
Tonsil stones form when bacteria and material like food debris, dead cells, mucus and saliva get trapped in the crypts or crevices and pits of the tonsils. Over time, this buildup calcifies into hard chalky bumps and has a foul smell. Some issues believed to increase the likelihood of developing tonsil stones are:
Poor oral hygiene
Chronic sinus issues
Large tonsils
What are Symptoms of Tonsil Stones?
How do you know if you have tonsil stones? They can range in size from being very small to being very large and are often visible with a help of a mirror. Besides being able to spot them visually, these are the common symptoms of tonsil stones:
Sore throat
Bad odour / build up of bacteria
A feeling that something stuck in the throat
Difficulty of swallowing
Tonsils Stones and Dentistry?
It may not seem that tonsil health and dental health go hand in hand, but good oral hygiene can actually play a large role in preventing the formation of the tonsil stones. Many tonsil stones can be removed with a toothbrush or a cotton swab.
Preventive Dental Care and Tonsil Stones
Regular brushing, flossing, warm salt water rinses, and regular visits to the dentist can help prevent tonsil stones and improve your oral health. Visit your dentist at Lux Dental to book a check up appointment.