From the Guidelines
Tonsilloliths, or tonsil stones, can be effectively treated with a combination of self-care measures and medical interventions.
Treatment Options
- Initially, it is recommended to try gargling with warm salt water several times a day to help loosen and disliege the stones 1.
- If this is not effective, a dentist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist may recommend the use of a waterpik or an oral irrigator to help remove the stones. In some cases, antibiotics such as penicillin or clindamycin may be prescribed to treat any underlying bacterial infections that may be contributing to the formation of tonsillar stones, as noted in the context of tonsillectomy guidelines [1, 1].
Surgical Intervention
For larger or more persistent tonsillar stones, a procedure called tonsillectomy may be necessary, which involves surgical removal of the tonsils and is usually performed under general anesthesia [1, 1].
Prevention
Additionally, good oral hygiene practices such as regular brushing and flossing, and regular dental check-ups can help prevent the formation of tonsillar stones. In some cases, the use of a mouthwash that contains ingredients such as chlorine dioxide or essential oils may also be recommended to help reduce the formation of tonsillar stones.
From the Research
Treatment Options for Tonsilloliths
The treatment options for tonsilloliths (tonsillar stones) include:
- Tonsillectomy: a surgical procedure to remove the tonsils, which can be effective in eliminating tonsil stones 2, 3
- Coblation tonsil cryptolysis: a minimally invasive procedure that uses Coblation technology to remove the stones and reduce the size of the tonsil crypts, which can be performed under local anesthesia 4
- Laser cryptolysis: a procedure that uses laser technology to remove the stones and reduce the size of the tonsil crypts, which can be effective in improving halitosis 5
- Tonsillotomy: a surgical procedure that involves removing part of the tonsil, which can be an alternative to tonsillectomy in adults 3
Considerations for Treatment
When considering treatment options for tonsilloliths, the following factors should be taken into account:
- The size and location of the stones
- The severity of symptoms, such as bad breath (halitosis) and sore throat
- The patient's overall health and medical history
- The potential risks and benefits of each treatment option, including the risk of complications and the need for anesthesia 4, 5, 3, 6
Minimally Invasive Procedures
Minimally invasive procedures, such as Coblation tonsil cryptolysis and laser cryptolysis, may be preferred over traditional tonsillectomy due to their potential benefits, including: