subject: How To Get Rid Of Tonsil Stones Easily [print this page] Most sufferers of severe bad breath or halitosis are also sufferers of tonsil stones, or tonsilloliths as they are medically referred to. These small white deposits form and become stuck on the tonsils and smell horrible. Often these cause bad breath for a person, leaving many with a need to get rid of tonsil stones so they can get rid of the discomfort and the bad breath forever.
A combination of things are thought to be the cause of these stones like food fragments, dead white blood cells, overactive salivary glands, and oral microorganisms. Typically they are white or whitish yellow and usually smaller than a pea. A white tongue may also be a sign of them. They form in the rear of the mouth in the tonsil crevasse and if not removed they can become a source of tonsil blisters. Many times people cough these out or even a hard laugh will dislodge them and they swallow the debris without even realizing it.
A variety of methods are used to get rid of them, with some being a bit more effective than others. Stones come in a variety of sizes, the majority of them small enough not to cause discomfort so one doesn't realize they are there. Although many may notice their breath is not so good and some frequent sore throats, which could be a sign of their presence. But the larger ones are noticeable and can cause great discomfort.
Removing them can be a bit of a challenge, although it can be done. Dislodging them with a finger or toothbrush is often the first thing tried. A Q-tip is another method that is used, but only for those who do not have a sensitive gag reflex. An effective method is a water pik that rinses the mouth and with pressurized water flushing them out.
Warm salt water, that is gargled with frequently, helps with loosening the stones and in soothing the inflamed tonsils. Because of the smell of the breath, many reach for a mouthwash to gargle with. A special mouthwash is available that uses salt water combined with some natural aromatic extracts that will not only soothe the tonsils but will also freshen the breath.
Another method that some choose which has proven to be very effective is irrigation. This is when a fluid is introduced through the nose and the mouth at the same time. Fluid coming in through both areas sandwiches the infected area and attacks the tonsil stones from two different directions.
A dentist can help in battling tonsil stones by prescribing antibiotics to be taken over a course of time. Antibiotics will settle down inflamed tonsils and help in dislodging the stones much easier. If after all natural ways have been tried, the only other step in removing them is through a tonsillectomy. But this is only used when absolutely nothing else as has worked.
Tonsil stones are not only annoying and uncomfortable. They can cause horrible and embarrassing bad breath. That leaves many with no option other than searching for a way to get rid of them. Natural methods like mentioned should always be pursued before any drastic surgery is recommended.
