6 Home Remedies for Tonsil Stones

What Are the Best Home Remedies for Tonsil Stones?

Tonsil stones, or tonsilloliths, can cause discomfort and bad breath. They are often a result of hardened calcium and food particles, along with mucus and germs. However, you can easily treat them at home with various remedies. Let us explore 6 home remedies that can help you get rid of tonsil stones.

What are the Best Home Remedies for Tonsil Stone Removal?

You may develop one or many tonsil stones. They are usually round with a yellowish tinge, causing discomfort, pain or difficulty swallowing. Here are the remedies you can try:

1. Salt Water Gargle

• Saltwater is an amazing remedy for tonsilloliths. It has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and loosen the stones.
• Mix a teaspoon of salt in warm water to make the solution. Use this solution to gargle twice or thrice a day. While gargling, remember to focus on the back of your throat.

2. Eat Garlic

• Garlic contains anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties, making it the perfect solution for tonsil stones. Since tonsilloliths contain bacteria and other germ buildups, eating raw garlic may help get rid of them. Moreover, it helps improve your breath, too.
• If you cannot eat raw garlic, mince it and add it to your food. You can also take garlic supplements after consulting with a healthcare professional.

3. Cotton Swab

• You can use soft cotton swabs to slightly nudge the stones out of your tonsils. Ensure you do this with a clean hand and a soft cotton swab. Stand in front of the mirror with good lighting and push them out. However, there is a chance of them falling into the oral cavity.
• Before trying this home remedy, you must keep some points in mind. Do not approach this method aggressively, as it can cause infections or irritations. Moreover, immediately gargle with salt water to rinse out any germ buildup.

4. Apple Cider Vinegar Gargle

• Apple cider vinegar has anti-bacterial properties, which can be excellent for getting rid of tonsil stones. For this, mix a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with warm water. Gargle for about 30-40 seconds and spit out the residue.
• Make sure to rinse with warm water afterwards to protect your teeth. Repeat this twice a day to see noticeable changes.

5. Non-alcoholic Mouthwash

• These mouthwashes maintain proper oral hygiene. You can swish it around in your mouth twice a day to keep your mouth clean and loosen the stones. Moreover, it also helps you deal with bad breath, a common symptom of tonsil stones.

Why am I Suddenly Getting Tonsil Stones?

Tonsil stones can be a sign of poor oral hygiene. However, they do not point to serious conditions and are easily treatable. Here are the potential reasons why you may be getting tonsil stones:

• Poor Oral Hygiene : Food and bacteria can build up inside your mouth if you do not practice proper oral hygiene. Therefore, brushing twice every day and flossing is necessary to prevent bacterial buildup. Moreover, focus on scraping your tongue with a tongue scraper to flush out germs.
• Larger Tonsil Crypts : Many people have larger folds and crevices in their tonsils, making it easy for food and bacteria to get stuck there. As a result, you may develop stones more often than usual.
• Dietary Choices : Certain diet and lifestyle choices can also increase your chances of getting tonsil stones. If you eat a high amount of processed and high-starch food, you are at a higher risk. Moreover, consuming too many dairy products can also trigger excessive mucus production, contributing to tonsilloliths.

Are Tonsil Stones Normal?

Yes, tonsil stones are normal and highly treatable. Many people do not notice its presence altogether. Approximately 10% of people worldwide have tonsil stones. They are not contagious and rarely cause any complications.

When to See a Doctor for Tonsil Stones?

If you do not see any results from the home remedies for tonsil stone removal, and your symptoms persist or worsen, seek professional medical help. Moreover, if you notice tonsil stones reappearing every two or three months despite good oral hygiene, you may need to visit the doctor. Here are the other reasons why you should seek professional help:

• Swelling that does not go away
• Throat pain
• Difficulty swallowing
• Consistent bad breath

Tonsil stones feel like small pebbles lodged in your mouth. Proper home remedies can help you manage symptoms and get rid of tonsilloliths.