2 Natural Treatments for Tonsil Stones

Tonsil stones were once thought to just be food particles stuck in the crevices of the throat. We now know that tonsil stones are hardened material that becomes calcified. The material is a mixture of bacteria, mucous and other particles. Tonsil stones are generally considered to be harmless, but there are some serious cases were home treatment is not an option.

If the tonsil stones are unusually large it may not be possible to remove them through home methods. An ear, nose and throat doctor often has to remove those types of tonsil stones. Some doctors also recommend having the tonsil removes, but this is not usually necessary.

There are a two popular treatment methods for removing and treating small tonsil stones that you can do at home. There are a variety of options within these treatments that you can choose from to meet your particular needs.

Water Treatment
One home remedy to prevent and treat tonsil stones is to gargle with warm salt water. This should be done on an ongoing basis. The warm salt water helps to loosen and soften the stones before they are able to become larger stones.

Another option is to use an oral irrigator filled with luke warm water. Be sure to use this only on the lowest setting. You can use a mirror to help locate the stones and remove them with the irrigator.

Removal
A cotton swab, soft toothbrush or qtip are three other tools that can be used to remove tonsil stones at home. If you use a toothbrush, be sure to be very gentle as to not further irritate the throat. A cotton swab and qtip are the two more  popular options because they aren't as harsh. If you use a cotton swab, make sure it's damp but not too wet, and gently "brush" away the tonsil stone. A qtip can be used to gentle prod the pocket  in the tonsils that is hosting the tonsil stone. The pressure should express the stone from the crevice.

If you have tonsil stones but are unable to treat it effectively at home, then it is recommended to consult with your primary health care provider. With the help of your doctor, you will more than likely be able to come up with an effective treatment for your tonsil stones. Another thing to remember is that tonsil stones are also referred to as tonsilloliths. You may hear that term from your doctor.