What illness causes tonsil stones?

Tonsil Stone Causes Tonsil stones form when this debris hardens, or calcifies. This tends to happen most often in people who have long-term inflammation in their tonsils or repeated cases of tonsillitis. Many people have small tonsilloliths, but it’s rare to have a large tonsil stone.

Why are tonsil stones becoming more common?

Dr. Burgert said tonsil stones are a natural consequence of the body trying to protect and defend itself. The stones are becoming more common as more people aren’t getting their tonsils removed. They are harmless, but can be very odorous.

Can a dental hygienist remove tonsil stones?

Dental hygienists can offer relief for patients with tonsil stones, also known as tonsilloliths. The tonsils offer many nooks and crannies that bacteria can use to thrive.

Can allergies cause tonsil stones?

However, most of the time, it’s the bacteria in the nose and sinuses, which drip down the back of the throat. These are more long standing conditions. Allergies are a common cause of tonsillar exudate caused by sinus bacteria and post-nasal drip.

Can post nasal drip cause tonsil stones?

Post Nasal Drip Bacteria can also build up in the crevices of your tonsils (if you still have them). The combination of post nasal drip and bacteria from the tonsils results in the formation of tonsil stones, hardened clumps of mucus that cause a fowl breath odor.

How many tonsil stones is normal?

Some people may have only one tonsil stone, while others have many smaller formations. Potential causes of tonsil stones include: poor dental hygiene.

Does sugar cause tonsil stones?

The role of diets −Diets high in sugar may put an individual at higher risk of developing chronic tonsil stones. As bacteria feed off sugar and multiply exponentially with sugar as a food source, the excessive bacteria can colonize the deep tonsil crypts and thrive in the anaerobic environment.

Can sinus problems cause tonsil stones?

Those with deeper cervices in their tonsils are more likely to develop tonsil stones. While people of all ages are susceptible, they are most often reported in teenagers. Poor dental hygiene, chronic sinus issues and having larger tonsils are all potential causes of tonsil stones.

How do I stop recurring tonsil stones?

The only way to fully prevent tonsil stones is to have your tonsils surgically removed. This procedure is called a tonsillectomy. It is usually used to treat chronic tonsillitis. Tonsillectomies are most commonly done in childhood, but can also be done in adults.

Can acid reflux cause tonsil stones?

Classic tonsil stone symptoms include halitosis (bad breath), sore throat, ear pain, difficulty swallowing, coughing, and swollen tonsils. These symptoms can make you think that you suffer from a throat infection or acid reflux irritation. However, you can also see tonsil stones as white or yellow spots on the tonsils.