There are a variety of natural treatments you can do at home. tonsil stones (tonsil stones). Tonsil stones often fall out on their own even without treatment.
Tonsil stones form when bacteria collect in the tonsillar crypts (folds of the tonsils). They are more common in adults than children and can range from barely noticeable to the size of a pea.
If you find it annoying, you can take steps to remove it. Removal methods typically include washing and rinsing to promote removal.
This article covers how to remove tonsil stones at home and daily dental hygiene tips to help prevent stone formation.
Removing tonsil stones at home
Tonsil stones can range from barely noticeable to very bothersome. Some people may feel like something is stuck in their throat or have difficulty swallowing. If tonsil stones are bothering you, there are many treatments you can try.
Try using a waterpik
Waterpik or water flossing is one easy way to remove tonsil stones at home. It may not be effective for very large or deeply embedded tonsil stones, but may be effective in removing smaller stones.
To try it, lean over the sink, aim the wet floss at the area, and spray. It may take several attempts to free the wreckage. This is also a great way to prevent bacterial buildup if tonsil stones recur.
Gargling with salt water
Another way to remove tonsil stones at home is to gargle with salt water. Mix 1 teaspoon of salt with 8 ounces of warm water, gargle and spit it out. This method creates friction on the neck and helps tonsil stones fall out. You may need to repeat the process a few times or for several days before it works.
Gargling with Apple Cider Vinegar
You can also try gargling with apple cider vinegar (ACV). The acidity of ACV can encourage tonsil stones to break down and fall out. ACV has well-established antibacterial properties. Tonsil stones are collections of bacteria, so antibacterial activity may be beneficial in their treatment.
Use 1 tablespoon of ACV in 1 cup of warm water, gargle and spit. If you accidentally swallow a tonsil stone, it's okay. It won't harm you.
Use a cotton swab
Another option is to manually remove tonsil stones. Use a cotton swab to gently remove the stone. Don't be pushy or aggressive. Use a gentle touch to move the stone into place. Some people with a strong gag reflex may have difficulty using this option.
neck massage
Sometimes, externally massaging the tonsil area can help tonsil stones fall out. It may be helpful to follow lymphatic massage techniques when massaging the tonsil area. Place your hand on the neck where you feel the tonsil stone and use gentle but firm strokes in a downward direction.
try coughing
Another technique to get rid of stubborn stones is coughing. Coughing causes the area in the throat where tonsil stones are lodged to vibrate. This type of rubbing can sometimes be a successful tonsil stone treatment. Be careful, as coughing too often or forcefully can cause throat inflammation.
What remedies can work quickly?
The above treatments may work quickly depending on the size and depth of the tonsil stones. If the stone is small and visible, it is best to use a wet floss or cotton swab. Because these tools give you more control. However, if tonsil stones are deep or hard to see, gargling or coughing may be the quickest method.
Why don't my tonsil stones dissolve?
Certain risk factors make some people more likely to develop tonsil stones. These include:
In about 3% of cases, tonsil stones are associated with kidney stones, gallstones, and Wharton's duct stones (stones that form in the salivary glands that enter the mouth). Researchers believe this may indicate a tendency for some people to develop calcification.
The tonsillar crypts enlarge with each infection, and tonsil stones may be associated with recurrent or chronic tonsillitis (tonsil infection).
Because tonsil stones are built-up debris, it may be a good idea to avoid or limit certain foods that are more likely to get trapped in the small pockets in your throat, such as popcorn and other foods with shells (peas, chickpeas, legumes). Chewing slowly and thoroughly and rinsing or gargling after meals may also be strategies to prevent tonsil stones from recurring.
Treatment through a health care provider
If home efforts aren't working, ask your health care provider for an evaluation. Your doctor, dentist, or otolaryngologistAn otolaryngologist (a doctor who specializes in ear, nose, and throat conditions) can help with in-office or surgical options.
Sometimes, if your tonsil stones are large, your healthcare provider may numb your throat and use removal techniques in the office. In other cases, if recurrent tonsil stones are seriously interfering with your life and are associated with large tonsillar crypts, your healthcare provider may recommend tonsillectomy (surgery to remove the tonsils).
Surgery is not the primary treatment for tonsil stones, but that is why surgeons sometimes perform tonsillectomy. One study found that social media use can influence people's perceptions of tonsil stones and subsequent requests for tonsillectomy to correct them.
A word from Berrywell
Home remedies for tonsil stones can be effective, but it is always recommended that people suffering from tonsil stones get checked by an ENT doctor or primary care physician.
—
ARNO KRONER, DAOM, Committee of Medical Experts
Daily dental hygiene to prevent tonsil stones
To prevent tonsil stone formation, the following routine dental hygiene practices may help:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day, after meals.
- Brush your tongue every day.
- Use dental floss to remove food between your teeth.
- Gargle with salt water after meals to prevent particle build-up.
summary
There are various ways to expel tonsil stones at home. The most common treatment for tonsil stones is to use friction to remove the stones. You can see results quickly by using water floss, gargle, or cotton swabs. If your tonsil stones are very large or recurrent, you may need to see your health care provider to address the problem.