Can I remove tonsil stones with a good mouthwash?

Tonsil stones can occur when debris, like food particles, dead cells, or bacteria, become trapped in the tonsil holes and calcify to form hard stones. The tonsil stones vary in size, from barely noticeable to several centimeters large. They capture and catch bacteria before they can go deeper into your oral cavity. Tonsil stones can lead to a sore throat, swelling, or even difficulty swallowing.

If you have tonsil stones, take heart in the fact that they often require no treatment. In this post, learn how to get rid of tonsil stones at home with a good mouthwash.

Mouthwash for tonsil stones

A key component of combating tonsil stones is oxygenation. The bacteria and debris that cause tonsil stones are effectively reduced when subjected to sufficient levels of oxygen. Mouthwash is formulated to combat bacteria responsible for tonsil stone formation and associated bad breath. Using a mouthwash without alcohol is best.

Gargling with mouthwash can help your throat feel better and dislodge tonsil stones. Gently swishing a mouthwash around the mouth can help loosen tonsil stones.

Mouthwash also reduces the amount of bacteria in the mouth. Having fewer bacteria can help prevent tonsil stones from forming. Mouthwash may also help relieve a sore, scratchy throat. It can also help you get rid of bad breath or any foul taste associated with tonsillitis. Gargling after eating can prevent bad breath, food buildup, and the formation of tonsil stones.

Tonsil stones facts

Let’s take a look at some quick facts about tonsil stones:

• Tonsil stones most often impact young adults, between ages 20 to 40. They aren’t often seen in children or older people.
• They’re most common in people who have repeated tonsillitis or have large tonsils.
• Tonsil stones range in color from white to yellow.
• They are usually soft or rubbery.
• A typical tonsil stone is about 1/2 mm wide and weighs 200 – 300 milligrams.
• A 14.5 centimeter tonsil stone was recorded in 1936.
• Long-term inflammation of the tonsils, repeated cases of tonsillitis, and large tonsils are all risk factors that might lead to tonsil stones.

Signs you may have tonsil stones

If you notice the following symptoms, you may have tonsil stones:

• White or yellow flecks at the back of your throat that may grow larger over time
• A feeling of an object being stuck in the back of the throat
• Bad breath
• Sore throat
• Difficulty swallowing
• Tonsil swelling
• Ear pain

How long do tonsil stones last?

Tonsil stones usually dislodge themselves over time. A person may cough out a stone or feel it dislodge before swallowing it.

However, if a person has a persistent stone that seems to be getting larger, they may wish to talk to a doctor.

When to see a doctor?

If you’re unable to remove a tonsil stone by using mouthwash, don’t try to force the stone out with sharp objects such as toothpicks, pens, or safety pins. It might cause bleeding as the area around the tonsils have many blood vessels.

If the tonsil stones persist for several weeks or the symptoms are getting worse, you should talk to your doctor. If you have a combination of the following symptoms, you need medical attention:

• Difficulty swallowing or speaking
• Enlarged tonsils that make it hard to breathe
• Pain that radiates to the ears
• Pus or white discharge from the tonsils
• Bleeding in the tonsil area
• Swelling or lump in the neck

If you have managed to remove tonsil stones but still have pain or bad breath, you should speak to a doctor. He’ll decide on the best course of action for your tonsil stones or inflamed tonsils. Your doctor may suggest antibiotics and rest to manage an active infection.

Preventing Tonsil Stones

Tonsil stones may be caused by food or bacteria that get stuck in the tonsillar crypts. People who have long-term tonsillitis are more likely to get tonsil stones. 

It’s a good idea to know how to prevent tonsil stones in the future. Practice good oral hygiene. Good dental habits can help prevent tonsil stones. Here’s what you should do to prevent tonsil stones:

• Stop smoking
• Drink a lot of water
• Avoiding excess alcohol
• Rinse regularly using a mouthwash, gently swishing mouthwash around your mouth helps kill bacteria and loosen tonsil stones.
• Brush your teeth thoroughly two times a day or after every meal. Brushing your teeth regularly to remove bacteria and keep things from getting stuck in your tonsils.
• Floss daily between the teeth to remove dental plaque and prevent food particles buildup.
• You can use a water flosser to flush out your mouth and help get rid of debris and bacteria.
• Eating yogurt and other foods with probiotics can help kill the bacteria in tonsil stones.
• Limiting or avoiding carbonated beverages such as soda and fizzy drinks
• Clean your tongue regularly by brushing or scraping it
• Treating sinus infections
• Managing allergy symptoms

Taking care of your mouth will reduce the number of tonsil stones you see in your life.

Final thoughts

The best way to prevent tonsil stones is by maintaining good oral hygiene and not smoking. Brush, floss, and rinse regularly. Take a look at the best mouthwash for tonsil stones.

Often, tonsil stones aren’t noticeable and will cause minor irritation, they sometimes lead to infection and discomfort. 

We hope you’ve enjoyed the article. If you have any questions, please do let us know. We would be happy to hear from you.