Tonsils are the two lymphatic tissues found at back of the throat on each side. The main role of tonsils is to safeguard the upper respiratory area from infections by fighting pathogens entering either through the nose or the mouth. Therefore, they form an important part of the immune system. Tonsil stones (tonsilloliths) are minute, calcareous, hard white lumps that form on the fissures of the tonsils. The formation of these lumps is as a result of a buildup of debris and dead cells that find their way to the throat from sinuses and the nose cavity. Tonsil stones can also be caused by mucus secretions, oral bacteria and hyperactive salivary glands. Before jumping to removing tonsil stones, here are some of the common symptoms.
Symptoms
You may want to consult your doctor who will recommend the idea removing tonsil stones procedure if you experience difficulty in swallowing, frequent sore throat, halitosis or bad breath, hard white lumps at the throat’s back and sometimes pain. Now that you understand the common tonsils stones symptoms, here are some of the common methods used in removing tonsil stones.
The first and probably the easiest method used in removing tonsil stones is by the use of cotton swab. First you need to dampen your swab with water then stand in front of a mirror and with the help of a flashlight press against the lower part of tonsil and rub it upwards. The pressure will force these stones out. You should take care while doing this so that you do not push these stone further inside the tonsil sepulchers. After you are done, rinse your mouth thoroughly with a mouthwash.
The second method used in removing tonsil stones is by the use of a Waterpik irrigator. This is a device that works by injecting a water jet spray in the mouth. You may want to use your tongue to point it the spray in the crypt where these stones are. Set the irrigator to the lowest setting and fill its reservoir with warm water. Then stand in front of a mirror and open the mouth wide. Use a flashlight to locate where the stones are. Use the irrigator to spray the water. The pulsating effect of the water will help in removing tonsil stones effectively. After removing tonsil stones, gargle and rinse your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash. In some cases, using a toothbrush helps in removing tonsil stones. Another effective method of removing tonsil stones is by drinking plenty of water.
Another method of removing tonsil stones is through surgery. This method is usually used if there is a higher frequency of re-occurrence. The medical surgery method used in removing tonsil stones is called lase cyptolysis. This method uses a carbon dioxide beam to remove the top layer of the tonsil. This way, the crypts and crevices where the debris has accumulated are usually flattened so that there will be no more deposit of these stones. The final method and one used in removing tonsil stones extreme cases is called tonsillectomy which involves removing the entire tonsils tissue. This offers a permanent solution for people suffering from tonsillitis too. This should be used as a last resort in removing tonsil stones.