Tonsil Stones Specialist

What are tonsil stones?

Tonsil stones (tonsilloliths) are collections of debris and bacteria around your tonsils that form hard, sometimes painful little lumps.

You have two tonsils, one on each side of the back of your throat. Tonsils contain lymphocytes, which are cells that help prevent and fight off infection. It appears that tonsils play a role in the immune system, trapping bacteria and viruses that enter your throat.

Unfortunately, tonsils often don't work well, and they can be more of a bother than a benefit. Tonsil stones are just one of the problems you can encounter with your tonsils.

What causes tonsil stones?

Tonsil stones form when dead cells, mucus, bacteria, and bits of debris get trapped in the nooks and crannies around your tonsils. The debris may bond together and calcify (harden) to form tonsil stones.

Tonsil stones are more likely to develop if you suffer repeated bouts of tonsillitis or have long-term tonsil inflammation. Small tonsil stones are common, but large ones are unusual.

What symptoms do tonsil stones cause?

Tonsil stones often don't cause any symptoms, or at least nothing noticeable. If they do become symptomatic, you might experience:

• Halitosis (bad breath)
• Sore throat
• Cough
• Trouble swallowing
• Ear pain
• Swollen tonsils

You might also see a solid lump of white material in your throat.

Your provider at Desert Cities Allergy & Otolaryngology can usually diagnose tonsil stones by looking at your throat. If they suspect tonsil stones but can't see them, your provider might recommend an on-site CT scan.

How are tonsil stones treated?

If your tonsil stones aren't causing any problems, they don't need treatment. If your tonsil stones are affecting you, there are several options available:

Medications

Antibiotics might be necessary if you have an infection. However, they don't do anything to get rid of the stones.

Cryptolysis

Cryptolysis uses laser or radiofrequency technology to create scars on your tonsils. The scarring means tonsil stones are less likely to form.

Surgical removal

If you have particularly large or troublesome tonsil stones, your provider at Desert Cities Allergy & Otolaryngology might recommend surgical removal.

Tonsillectomy

Removing your tonsils could be the answer if you have persistent or severe tonsil stones. Tonsillectomy involves cutting out the tonsils, providing a permanent solution to chronic tonsil trouble.

Tonsil removal doesn't affect your immune system. Studies show that people who've undergone a tonsillectomy aren't at higher risk of developing respiratory infections like colds and flu.

If you're having tonsil trouble, call Desert Cities Allergy & Otolaryngology today or book an appointment online.