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  • Tonsil holes, or crypts, are a normal part of the tonsils. As we age, the tonsils shrink causing the holes to deepen. Food, dead cells, debris and mucous then collect in these holes and bacteria feeds on this material. Over time, the trapped material hardens into yellow, waxy objects called tonsil stones. It is almost impossible to prevent tonsil stones, but there are ways to make them less annoying.

    Opting for Non-Treatment

    Tonsil stones will usually dislodge on their own and are not dangerous. The stones do have a bad smell and may cause bad breath. Large stones can cause swelling, which may block the tubes that drain the ears, resulting in sore throats and ear pain. A stone may dislodge at an inopportune time and irritate the gag reflex or just create the annoying feeling that something is caught in the throat.

    Removing the Stones

    You can remove the stones by applying pressure to the edge of the crypt with a Q-tip. Removing the stones yourself keeps them from dislodging at inopportune times and keeps them from getting too big. Use caution when manually removing the stones and do not stick anything inside the crypts. Doing so may damage the tonsils or push debris further in. If a stone does get too big, or gets stuck, consult with your physician.

    Gargling and Irrigation

    Regular gargling can kill bacteria and manage the smell from the stones. Gargling, with warm salt water, after meals may help wash food and other debris out of the crypts before it can set. Gargling can also help dislodge existing stones. There are also devices, similar to a water-pik, specifically designed to flush the tonsil crypts and remove debris.

    Staying Hydrated

    Drink lots of liquids to keep the throat moist and help wash dead cells and mucous down the throat so that they don't collect in the crypts. Drinking liquids may also help flush any existing stones out of the crypts before they can get too big.

    Preventing Inflammation

    Smoking and environmental irritants may cause the tonsils to swell, deepening the crypts and making it easier for debris to get stuck. Infections, like tonsillitis and strep throat, will also cause swelling. Avoiding smoking and using OTC throat remedies may reduce the swelling. For tonsillitis, The Mayo Clinic recommends taking OTC pain relievers, like ibuprofen, which can also reduce swelling. People prone to recurring tonsil infections may also take antibiotics as a preventative measure.

    Surgical Intervention

    The only way to completely avoid tonsil stones is to remove the tonsils. Tonsillectomies are not without risk, and excessive bleeding is a common concern in adult tonsillectomies.

    Source:

    Tonsils and Adenoids

    Treating Tonsil Stones

    Mayo Clinic Tonsillitis Information

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