What is Tonsil Stone?
Tonsils have indentations where many substances such as bacteria, mucus, dead cells, and food residues can accumulate and get stuck. As a result of the accumulation of these substances and their hardening over time, hard structures resembling stones are formed.
These structures, called tonsil stones, can be painful or painless. Their sizes vary.
It is seen that tonsil stones are more common in individuals who experience recurrent tonsillitis.
In the vast majority of tonsil stone cases, the size of the stone is usually between a grain of rice and a grape.
Small tonsil stones, which are white or yellow in color, are present in most people.
Because they are small, they usually do not cause any symptoms. And they do not require any treatment.
Tonsil stones are also quite difficult to see with the eye due to both the location of the tonsils and the fact that the stones are generally small in size.
Therefore, many people do not realize it even if they have small tonsil stones.
Large tonsil stones are much rarer. And the probability of developing disturbing symptoms increases at the same rate as the size of the stone.
At the same time, large tonsil stones can also manifest themselves with the bad smell they create in the mouth.
What Causes Tonsil Stones?
Tonsils consist of certain crevices, chambers, tunnels and pits due to their anatomical structure. These areas create a suitable environment for the accumulation of dead cells, mucus, salivary secretions, food residues and bacteria. Tonsil stones are formed as a result of the accumulation and compression of such residues in the recessed structures of the tonsils. Bacteria and some types of fungi use these accumulations as nutrients. As a result, both infection and bad breath occur. The cause of bad breath is bacteria that feed on tonsil stones and produce sulfites by breathing without oxygen.
In addition to these, some other factors that can be stated as an answer to the question of what causes tonsil stones are as follows:
Inadequate Oral Hygiene:
When adequate oral hygiene is not provided, food residues, dead cells and mucus accumulate in the crypts on the tonsils.
These residues harden and mineralize over time, forming tonsil stones.
Not brushing teeth regularly, not using dental floss and not cleaning the tongue can cause this condition.
This may be caused by not brushing your teeth regularly, not using dental floss, and not cleaning your tongue.
Structural Features of Tonsils:
Some people’s tonsils may have deeper and wider crypts. This makes it easier for debris to accumulate in these pockets and lead to stone formation over time. These structural features of the tonsils may vary depending on genetic factors.
Chronic Tonsillitis:
Chronic tonsillitis causes the tonsils to become constantly inflamed and swollen. This leads to more crypts forming on the surface of the tonsils, thus increasing the risk of stone formation. Constant inflammation can cause bacteria and other microorganisms to accumulate in the tonsils and stones to grow.
Dry Mouth:
Dry mouth occurs due to decreased saliva secretion. Saliva helps to cleanse the mouth of debris and prevent the growth of bacteria.
In case of dry mouth, more debris accumulates in the crypts of the tonsils.
And the risk of stone formation increases. Dry mouth can be caused by certain medications, diseases or habits such as breathing through the mouth while sleeping.
Bacterial and Fungal Infections:
Bacteria and fungi found in the mouth can accumulate in the tonsils and cause infections. These microorganisms play an important role in the formation of tonsil stones. Bacteria such as Streptococcus and Actinomyces species in particular can accelerate the growth of stones.
What are The Symptoms of Tonsil Stones?
- Bad breath
- Persistent sore throat
- Difficulty swallowing
- Earache
- Persistent cough
- Swollen tonsils
- An unpleasant taste in the mouth
- Feeling like something is stuck in the throat
How are Tonsil Stones Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of tonsil stones consists of several stages. The first step is usually a physical examination. ENT specialists examine the mouth and throat area with illuminated tools and a tongue depressor. If the stones are located in a visible place, this method may be sufficient.
When the physical examination does not yield results, imaging techniques are used.
Imaging Methods:
X-ray:
Can show calcified tonsil stones.
CT Scans:
It can reveal hidden or small stones in detail.
The differential diagnosis process is performed to separate tonsil stones from other conditions with similar symptoms.
In this process, different health conditions are excluded. And the correct diagnosis is made.
The combination of physical examination and imaging techniques forms the basis of the diagnostic process.
In this way, tonsil stones can be effectively diagnosed without being confused with tonsillitis or another condition.
These methods allow healthcare professionals to accurately assess the patient’s condition.
How is Tonsil Stone Surgery Performed and Who is It Suitable for?
Surgical Methods for Tonsil Stone Treatment
Tonsil Surgery:
This operation is performed under general anesthesia.
It provides a definitive solution for severe tonsil stones by completely removing the tonsils.
The operation takes about 1 hour.
And patients are usually discharged on the same day. The recovery process can be painful.
It takes longer in adults than in children
Laser Cryptolysis:
In this minimally invasive procedure, the stones in the tonsils are cleaned using laser technology. The recovery period is short and may sometimes require more than one session. Since some tonsil tissues may remain, there is a risk of stones recurring.
Coblation Cryptolysis:
This procedure, which is performed with radiofrequency energy, removes stones in a similar way to laser cryptolysis.
It is a safe option as it has a lower risk of burns. And it does not cause airway fires or mouth burns.
More than one treatment session may be required.
The advantages of surgical treatment can be listed as follows:
Definitive Solution:
It is possible to get rid of tonsil stones permanently with tonsillectomy.
Minimally Invasive Options:
Laser and coblation are less invasive and shorten recovery times.
Reduced Recurrence:
Surgical methods reduce the likelihood of stones recurring compared to conservative treatments.
These surgical treatments are especially suitable for those with large and hard stones that are difficult to remove manually.
They are also preferred for those with frequent symptoms such as bad breath, sore throat and difficulty swallowing, and those who experience recurrent tonsillitis or other complications.
These methods offer the opportunity to permanently solve the problems by improving the quality of life of patients.
Alternative and Supportive Methods
Antibiotic Treatment:
Tonsil stones are often associated with bacterial infections. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection caused by tonsil stones. However, antibiotics do not directly treat the stones. They only control the infection.
Use of Probiotics:
Probiotics can prevent stone formation by maintaining a healthy bacterial balance in the mouth. Mouthwashes or lozenges containing probiotics can prevent the formation of stones by reducing harmful bacteria in the mouth.
Diet and Lifestyle Changes:
It is important to adopt a healthy diet and lifestyle to improve oral health. Drinking plenty of water, reducing smoking and alcohol consumption, and avoiding sugary foods and drinks can help prevent the formation of tonsil stones.
How to Prevent Tonsil Stone Formation?
Here are some ways to prevent tonsil stones:
Regular Oral Hygiene:
Brushing your teeth, flossing, and gargling regularly after eating and throughout the day can prevent food residue and bacteria from accumulating in the mouth, reducing the formation of tonsil stones.
Oral and Dental Health Checkups:
Regular visits to the dentist can help keep oral and dental health under control. This allows for early detection and treatment of oral problems.
Avoiding Tobacco Products:
Smoking or using tobacco products can negatively affect oral hygiene.
And can increase the formation of tonsil stones.
Therefore, it is important to stay away from tobacco products.
Healthy Nutrition:
A balanced and varied diet can strengthen the immune system and increase the body’s resistance to diseases. This can reduce tonsil infections and stone formation.
Strengthening the Immune System:
Factors such as adequate sleep, regular exercise, and avoiding stress can positively affect tonsil health by supporting the immune system.
Control of Immunosuppressive Drugs:
The use of certain drugs that can affect the immune system can cause tonsil stones. It is important to keep the use of such drugs under the advice and supervision of a doctor.
These measures can help reduce the formation of tonsil stones. However, someone who experiences symptoms or constant discomfort should consult a specialist doctor and receive the right treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tonsil Stones
Which Doctor Should You See for Tonsil Stones?
Ear, Nose and Throat Disease Specialists should be consulted for the diagnosis and follow-up of tonsil stones.
Are Tonsil Stones Temporary?
It is possible for stone formation to reoccur after being removed by surgical or non-surgical methods. Tonsil stones may reoccur due to the immune system, oral hygiene, frequently recurring tonsil infections and some determining factors.
Is Tonsil Stone Removal Harmful?
Tonsil stones generally do not pose a serious health problem. However, they can be uncomfortable and symptoms may include bad breath, sore throat, difficulty swallowing and a general feeling of discomfort.
Tonsil stones can rarely lead to serious complications.
These may include:
Recurrent Infections:
Tonsil stones can lead to persistent infections and trigger tonsillitis.
Tonsil Enlargement and Pain:
Stones can cause swelling and pain in the tonsils.
Bad Breath:
One of the most common symptoms, bad breath, can make social interactions uncomfortable.
Difficulty Swallowing:
Large tonsil stones can cause difficulty swallowing.
Tonsil stones are usually harmless to remove. And if the stones are causing discomfort or recurring infections, treatment may be necessary.
Therefore, if the stones are causing symptoms or causing discomfort, a specialist is consulted. And appropriate treatment methods are discussed.
It is important to follow the treatment recommended by your doctor, especially if there are recurring discomforts or if the symptoms are severe.
What Happens If Tonsil Stones Are Swallowed?
Tonsil stones are generally harmless to swallow.And are usually processed safely by the digestive system.
Small tonsil stones do not usually cause discomfort or serious health problems when swallowed.
The digestive system processes the small stones that are swallowed during the normal digestive process and removes them from the body.
However, when large or sharp tonsil stones are swallowed, some symptoms may be seen in rare cases.
These conditions usually include:
Throat Irritation:
There may be a slight discomfort in the throat when large stones are swallowed.
Stomach Disorder:
Large stones can cause discomfort or mild pain in the stomach.
Difficulty Swallowing:
In rare cases, large stones can make swallowing difficult or create a feeling of being stuck.
Do Tonsil Stones Recur?
Tonsil stones are a recurring problem due to the structure of the crypts in the tonsils.
These folds can trap food residue, dead cells and bacteria and become calcified over time.
Chronic tonsil infections and poor oral hygiene increase the risk of recurrence.
Smoking and dehydration can also contribute to this condition.
If tonsil stones recur frequently or cause serious health problems, an ENT specialist should be consulted.
Can Tonsil Stones Be Seen in Children?
Tonsil stones can be seen in children.
This condition is usually associated with factors such as frequent inflammation of the tonsils and having large crypts.
This health problem, which is more common in adolescents and adults, also manifests itself with certain symptoms in children.
This problem can be more common in children with poor oral hygiene.
Symptoms:
Bad Breath:
This is the most common symptom in children and usually attracts attention.
Sore Throat:
Varies depending on the size of the stones and the inflammation.
Difficulty Swallowing:
It occurs due to the physical presence of the stones.
Ear Pain:
It may occur due to the nerve pathways connected to the tonsils.
A Feeling of Congestion in the Throat:
This may cause discomfort in children.
Red and Swollen Tonsils:
It may be a sign of infection.
