What Are "Mouth Stones"? Understanding Tonsil Stones

Have you ever coughed up a tiny, hard, white or yellowish speck that smelled incredibly bad? You might have just discovered a tonsil stone. Also known as tonsilloliths, these little formations are incredibly common and are often the secret behind chronic bad breath that brushing alone can't seem to cure.

Your tonsils are full of small nooks, crannies, and pockets. Over time, dead cells, mucus, and tiny food particles can get trapped inside these pockets. When the bacteria in your mouth get ahold of this trapped material, it calcifies and hardens into a small, harmless stone that emits a strong sulfur odor.

For most people, tonsil stones are completely harmless and simply a nuisance. You might feel a slight sensation that something is stuck in the back of your throat, or experience a mild sore throat. The easiest way to prevent them is to maintain an excellent oral hygiene routine, which includes brushing your tongue and rinsing thoroughly.

Gargling vigorously with warm salt water can help dislodge stones that have already formed and soothe any irritation in the area. Water flossers used on a very low, gentle setting can also help flush out the pockets if you are prone to frequent buildups.

At Petras Family Dental in Amherstburg, we look at your entire oral cavity during your regular exams to ensure everything is healthy from your teeth to the back of your throat. If you have questions about persistent bad breath, we’re here to help. Contact us at 519-713-8985 or visit petrasfamilydental.com/book to book your appointment