Have you noticed persistent bad breath that mouthwash cannot fix, or perhaps a strange taste in the back of your throat? You could have tonsil stones, which are a surprisingly common and often overlooked cause of chronic halitosis. Many patients seeking the best dentist in Morton, IL, are surprised to learn that their bad breath is often caused by small, foul-smelling formations in their tonsils, rather than cavities or gum disease.
What Are Tonsil Stones?
Tonsil stones (also known as tonsilloliths) are small, hard deposits that form in the crypts or crevices of your tonsils. They’re made up of a mix of mucus, saliva, dead cells, and even trapped food particles.
Over time, this material calcifies, forming a white or yellowish stone ranging in size from a grain of rice to a pea or larger. It can be caused by various issues, such as:
- Chronic tonsillitis
- Large or deep tonsil crypts
- Poor oral hygiene
- Sinus issues and postnasal drip
- Smoking
Debris can easily get trapped if your tonsils have deep crevices, even if you practice good dental care.
Why Do Tonsil Stones Cause Bad Breath?
Tonsil stones are mostly harmless, but they’re one of the most underrated causes of chronic bad breath—also known as halitosis. They can cause a bad odor for various reasons:
- Tonsil stones contain anaerobic bacteria that produce volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs). The same foul gases give bad breath its distinct odor.
- These stones are located at the back of your throat, close to the airway, so the odor is constantly released when you speak or exhale.
- They may also produce a metallic taste, a sore throat, or the sensation that something is stuck.
If you've been brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash but still experience bad breath, tonsil stones may be the culprit.
How to Get Rid of Tonsil Stones
Oftentimes, gargling with saltwater or an alcohol-free mouthwash is enough to help dislodge small stones. Some people also use cotton swabs or oral irrigators to remove visible stones at home.
If the issue persists, bad breath is persistent, or your tonsil stones are causing pain, it may be time to visit a dentist or an ENT specialist. We can help diagnose the issue and guide you to the right solution, or we may recommend laser treatments or even tonsillectomy in extreme cases.
How to Prevent Tonsil Stones
Prevention starts with good oral hygiene, but also includes:
- Brushing your tongue daily to reduce bacteria
- Staying hydrated to keep the mucus thin
- Using a non-alcoholic mouthwash regularly
- Managing allergies or sinus drainage
If you're prone to tonsil stones, your dental provider can help you customize a plan to reduce buildup and improve breath freshness.
Ask the Best Dentist in Morton, IL, About Your Tonsil Stones
You don’t have to live with the discomfort and embarrassment of bad breath. If you suspect tonsil stones are the cause of constant halitosis that won’t go away, a dentist at Smalltown Dental can help.
From conducting a thorough dental cleaning to treating underlying issues like cavities or gum disease, we’ll target your bad breath with a comprehensive approach. Reach out to schedule an appointment!
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