Tonsil stones, or tonsilloliths, are caused by the accumulation of calcium salts in the crevices of the tonsil glands. Sulphur-producing bacteria and foods that get stuck in the gland’s pockets build up and calcify, resulting in the formation of these irritating stones. According to doctors, about 6% of the population suffers from this condition.
Before thinking of a quick way to get rid of the tonsil stones, it is necessary to find out if you’re actually suffering from this condition. To be completely sure, you may need to get a CT scan or X-ray. Otherwise, you can just look out for common symptoms. A very common one is extremely bad breath. This foul smell will still persist even after brushing your teeth. The existence of this condition is also usually accompanied by sore throats which may make swallowing a difficult process. Also, you will experience a pain in the ears as the two organs have nervous inter connections. A more obvious sign is the swelling of the tonsil glands.
Removal of tonsil stones may be done at home or in the presence of a doctor. For all cases, this is how to get rid of tonsil stones fast:
1. Removing them physically
This is the simplest and most unprofessional method. If you opt to use your fingers, make sure you wash them thoroughly before trying to poke the stones. You don’t want to add infections to the already existing problem. Alternatively, use a soft toothbrush to brush around the area where the stones are located. The whole idea here is to dislodge the stones. A more advanced method is to use an irrigating spray to spray the stones out the tonsil glands.
2. Gargling with water
Warm salty water can help to flush tonsil stones out your glands. Another way to do this would be to use carbonated drinks such as tonic water. If you experience pains or discomfort because of tonsil stones, this method would be ideal as it gets rid of the pain much faster. The stones are loosened and become much easier to flush out.
Make sure you use 8 ounces of warm water for two tea spoons of salt. It is important to repeat this process a number of times, letting the liquid reach the back of your throat. Salty water will also help to kill bacteria in the area around the glands, thus preventing further formation of tonsil stones.
3. Medical methods
Tonsil stones can also be removed through medical means. Depending on the cause of the infection, a doctor will recommend one of these methods: tonsillectomy, antibiotics or cryptolysis. Antibiotics are meant to prevent the development and survival of the bacteria causing the problem. This is achieved by making the environment around the glands non-conducive for the existence of these bacteria.
A surgery will involve the complete or partial removal of the tonsil glands. This process is only necessary for the exceedingly large tonsilloliths, or for people who get tonsil stones frequently. Obviously, it is not advisable to jump to this option as it may have lasting and undesirable consequences.
Cryptolysis is a form of treatment where lasers are used to get rid of the stones. Recovering from its effects will take less time; usually about a week.
How to get rid of tonsil stones fast 