Tonsil Stone

Individuals with tonsil stones can take steps to remove them at home. Gargling with salt water helps change the chemistry in the mouth and dislodge the tonsil stones. Vigorous coughing may also help loosen and free stones.

Other home remedies include:

• • • Garlic has antibacterial, anti-fungal and antiviral properties that may help prevent bacterial growth and infection.
    • Some essential oils, including myrrh, thieves oil and lemongrass, possess anti-inflammatory or antibacterial properties that may help reduce or eliminate the tonsil stone. Be sure to dilute the essential oil in a carrier oil and place one or two drops on a toothbrush before brushing your mouth. Avoid using this toothbrush again if you’ve used it on the stones.
    • Apples contain acid that may help fight the bacteria in a tonsil stone.
    • Onions possess antibacterial properties that may help prevent and eliminate tonsil stones.
    • Snacking on carrots stimulates an increase in production of saliva and natural antibacterial processes.
    • Gargling apple cider vinegar or any other type of vinegar (diluted with water) can help break down the stones, thanks to its high acidity.

Individuals with larger tonsil stones may need a minor surgical procedure to remove them.

During laser tonsil cryptolysis, a laser is aimed at the crypts where tonsil stones are stuck. The patient will be under local anesthesia and experience minimal discomfort. The recovery time is very brief.

During coblation cryptolysis, radio waves transform a salt solution into charged ions that are able to move through tissue without causing a burning sensation.

Antibiotics may be prescribed to help manage tonsil stones by reducing the presence of bacteria. However, antibiotics don’t treat the underlying cause of tonsil stones and may come with side effects.