Terms of UseAbout the BBCPrivacy PolicyPrivacy PolicyCookiesCookiesAccessibility HelpParental GuidanceContact the BBCMake an editorial complaintBBC emails for youAdvertise with usCopyright © 2023 BBC. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking. oral health center/oral health a-z list/tonsil stones article Medical Author: John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP Medical Editor: Charles Patrick Davis, MD, PhD Introduction What are tonsil stones? Causes & Risk Factors What are causes and risk factors of tonsil stones? Symptoms What are the symptoms of tonsil stones? Diagnosis How are tonsil stones diagnosed? Treatment What are the treatments for tonsil stones? Home Remedies How do you get rid of tonsil stones at home? Prognosis How long do tonsil stones last? Prevention How to prevent tonsil stones Tonsil stones can form when food, mucus, and bacteria get stuck in the craters of the tonsils.
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2. TheraBreath Fresh Breath Oral Rinse: This mouthwash is specifically formulated to target bad breath. It contains a patented oxygenating compound that neutralizes odor-causing bacteria. It is alcohol-free and has a mild mint flavor.
Tonsil stones are risk-free buildup that will go away on their own. However, the duration of tonsil stones can vary from person to person. They may go away or melt on their own in a short period, or they can also stay for weeks if they are deep in the throat and bacteria continue to grow on them. Besides, if proper oral hygiene is not performed, it may last for years and lead to a more serious problem, such as tonsillitis.
Tonsil stone treatment is not always needed. Stones frequently either dissolve on their own or are coughed up.
Surgery for tonsil stones is often controversial. Dental care services suggest the surgery only when the case is severe, chronic, and other methods have failed.
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is another common cause of halitosis. When plaque builds up on the teeth and gums, it can lead to inflammation and infection. This can result in an unpleasant odor coming from the mouth. Certain medical conditions such as dry mouth, sinus infections, and respiratory tract infections can also contribute to bad breath.
Your doctor can usually diagnose tonsil stones with a physical exam. If they’re hidden in the folds of your tonsils, you might need imaging tests, such as CT or MRI scans, to spot them.
The main symptom of halitosis is a bad odor from the mouth. The odor can be worse in the morning or after smoking, drinking coffee, or eating certain foods, such as garlic.
Lemon water is not only refreshing but also has natural antibacterial properties that can help combat bad breath. The citric acid in lemons helps to stimulate saliva production, which can help to wash away bacteria and food particles in the mouth.
Nicotine products on their own can cause bad breath, but using them relaxes the LES which can cause acid reflux.
Dentures that are not cleaned correctly may be collecting bacteria, fungi, and remaining food particles. All of these cause bad breath.
1. Teach proper oral hygiene: Show your child how to brush their teeth properly using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Encourage them to brush all surfaces of their teeth, including the front, back, and chewing surfaces. Teach them how to floss properly as well.
Rinsing your throat will kill some of the anaerobic bacteria that grow on your tonsil stones and soften the growth.
Gargling with salt water can help dislodge tonsil stones and reduce inflammation in the tonsils. Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle for 30 seconds before spitting it out.
The Benefits of Drinking Water for Fresher Breath
If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontal disease, which affects the bone and gums that keep teeth in place. Over time, plaque buildup causes weakened gums and bone loss, leading to spaces around the teeth that need professional cleaning.