Tonsil stones are a collection of minerals that solidify on the surface of tonsils. Generally tonsil stones are as big as gravel and yellowish white. 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 tissue pads that are on both sides of the back of the mouth. The frequency of the appearance of this stone is quite diverse. Some people can experience it repeatedly even with more than one stone.
Various Causes of Tonsil Stones
Tonsil stones are formed from a buildup of bacteria, food scraps, dead skin cells, saliva, and plaque in the mouth, in the surface crevices of the tonsils. Over time, this pile can settle and become solid, like a rock.
There are several conditions which are considered to cause tonsil stones, which are:
Large tonsillary or rocky structure
When tonsils have many niches, or have a large enough gap, dirt in the mouth can easily get stuck. This dirt can gradually settle and harden into stone.
Poor oral care
If you are lazy to maintain dental and oral hygiene, various bacteria and other impurities that can form tonsil stones, will be easier to accumulate.
Recurrent tonsillitis or inflammation
People who often experience tonsillitis generally will experience enlarged tonsils. This can facilitate the formation of tonsil stones, because bacteria and food scraps are more likely to get stuck and settle on the tonsils.
How to Recognize Tonsil Stones
The easiest way to find out if you have tonsil stones is to open your mouth wide in front of the mirror, then see if on the back of the tonsils you see lumps or a yellowish-white protruding coating. Tonsil stones can be rubbery or hard texture.
If you do not find these lumps, not necessarily 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 throats that often recur and never heal.
- Discomfort, like something is stuck in the back of the mouth.
- Difficulty swallowing.
- Cough continuously.
- The ear aches or aches.
If you experience the symptoms above, you might have tonsil stones. To be sure, you need to see a doctor.
How to Overcome Tonsil Stones
If tonsil stones continue to cause discomfort, the following ways you can try to overcome them:
Push with cotton or fingers
If the stone is visible and you can reach it, try pushing it gently with your fingers or cotton wool to lift and release. Avoid picking it out with rough or sharp tools, such as toothbrushes or toothpicks, because they can cause sores and infections in the tonsils.
Gargle
Try gargling hard or spraying water on tonsil stones. Water pressure can help push the tonsil stones to lift and release. In addition to plain water, you can also use mouthwash or salt water to make it more effective. Salt water can help to eliminate bad breath due to this condition.
Cough on purpose
Encouragement that occurs when coughing can help soften and release tonsil stones. Therefore, try to cough several times hard enough. But if it does not work, do not continue to force a cough, because it risks hurting the throat and triggering inflammation.
If the stone size is too large and continues to cause complaints, you should consult with a doctor. The doctor may need to do a small operation to remove tonsil stones.
So that tonsil stones do not appear again, make efforts to prevent routine brushing teeth twice a day and diligently using mouthwash. In addition, avoid bad habits that can interfere with oral health, for example consuming alcohol and smoking.
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