Yes, small tonsil stones can be removed at home using a cotton swab or the back of your toothbrush. However, if you have large tonsil stones or are experiencing severe symptoms, it's best to see a doctor.
About Us East Memphis Location Midtown Memphis Location Our Team Patient Testimonials Mid-South Mission of Mercy Services Cosmetic Dentistry Invisalign Zoom! Whitening Crowns Bonding Policies & Forms Going Green Smile Gallery Contact Blog
.
Saliva usually washes away excess food particles and bacteria that build up on teeth. If you don’t have enough saliva to do this you will definitely suffer from an unpleasant smell. Common causes of decrease saliva are:
Introduction
Tonsilloliths are generally harmless. However, they can cause discomfort and a foul smell, so tonsil stones treatment mainly includes home remedies and medical procedures.
1. Peppermint oil: Peppermint oil has a refreshing scent and can help freshen breath. It has antimicrobial properties that can kill bacteria in the mouth. You can add a few drops of peppermint oil to water and use it as a mouthwash or add it to your toothpaste.
DIY Remedy #1: Oil Pulling
- Yogurt: Yogurt contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can help balance the oral microbiome and reduce bad breath.
If the dentist determines that the cause of bad breath is not related to oral health, they may refer you to a doctor for further evaluation. The doctor can assess your overall health and determine if there are any underlying medical conditions that need to be addressed.
Causes of halitosis can originate either inside or outside your mouth. A person with poor oral hygiene maintenance has a higher chance of halitosis than who regularly brushes. Common causes include gingivitis, periodontitis, dental caries, excessive plaque accumulation on teeth and tongue, pericoronitis, or oral ulcers. Food substances having a strong, pungent smell are another common cause. Frequent smoking, alcohol, or caffeine intake results in temporary bad breath. Any diseases or medications that cause dryness of the oral cavity are another contributing factor. Outside the oral cavity, inflammation of the tonsils or sinuses is another important factor that affects the quality of breath. Gastric diseases, especially gastroesophageal reflux, are another cause of halitosis.
Treating the underlying digestive issue is key to alleviating bad breath. This may involve lifestyle changes, such as avoiding trigger foods or losing weight, or medications to reduce acid reflux or manage gastrointestinal problems.
Antibiotics may be prescribed in cases where tonsil stones are accompanied by an infection. Antibiotics can help kill the bacteria causing the infection and reduce inflammation in the tonsils.
Mucus is a normal substance produced by lining tissues in the body. Excess mucus or mucus that is yellow, green, brown, or bloody may indicate a problem. Mucus production may increase when allergies, a cold, flu, cough, or sore throat are present. Antihistamines and cold and flu medications may help alleviate excess mucus. A neti pot may be used to decrease nasal congestion and clear mucus.
Certain bacteria on the back of the tongue can interact with amino acids in foods and make smelly sulfur compounds.
DIY Remedy #3: Apple Cider Vinegar
Flossing removes food particles and bacteria that get caught between your teeth to cause bad breath. Good oral hygiene, including flossing, is one of the easiest ways to treat bad breath.
The Role of Diet in Preventing Bad Breath