Tonsilolliths, commonly known as tonsil stones, are caused by an accumulation of the sulfur-producing bacteria and debris that become lodged in the tonsils. The debris may include mucous from post nasal drips and small food particles putrefy in the back of the throat and get collected in the tonsil crypts. These crypts are small divots or pockets which appear on the surface of the tonsils.
Having tonsilollith can be a nuisance to a person even if they are quite harmless. These smelly white balls in the back of the throat causes a metallic taste in the mouth and can give a hindrance in swallowing and inhaling. However, tonsil stones are not something that can simply be rid of with a pill or a potion. There’s a gradual process in treating these stones and one must be patient in following these procedures.
Watching want one eats is another way to treat tonsil stones. One must avoid milk and dairy products because these are known to stimulate the production of mucous and calcium, which are both elements of tonsilollith. Sugary foods can also add to the formation of tonsil stone. These are the food of anaerobic bacteria in the mouth and will disrupt the efforts to remove the tonsil stones. Eating before bedtime is also one of the causes of these stones because the food particles left on the mouth may accumulate in the tonsils and tonsil crypts.
Post nasal drip has been associated with the formation of tonsil stones. Sneezing, coughing or flexing the throat can also work to get rid of tonsil stones. This will release the stones from the tonsils and thus they will be coughed up. One must also know that these stones are the ones that causes bad breath and will most likely emit an extremely unpleasant odor.
Practicing good oral care is the most suggested procedure dentists always give. This is simple as it is but one must follow it. Brushing and flossing regularly can help remove food particles left in the mouth. Gargling with a mouthwash must be done to remove the bacteria in the mouth and it can help dislodge the stones from the throat allowing it to be spit out. Oxygenating toothpaste and mouthwash is also recommended together with a tongue scraper to effectively remove and neutralize the anaerobic bacteria at the back of the tongue. One can opt for a surgical procedure to completely prevent these stones from coming back. This procedure is through tonsil removal or tonsillectomy however, this can be dangerous and expensive.