Introduction
Tonsil stones, also known as tonsilloliths or tonsil calculi, are hard deposits of bacteria, food particles, and mucus that form in the crevices of the tonsils. They can range in size from small pebbles to large stones, and can cause bad breath, sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and ear pain. While they’re not usually dangerous, they can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. If you’re looking for ways to get rid of tonsil stones, there are several natural remedies and medical treatments available.
Natural Remedies
There are several natural remedies that can help to dislodge and remove tonsil stones. Gargling with warm salt water is one of the most popular methods. Simply mix 1 teaspoon of salt with 8 ounces of warm water, and gargle for 30 seconds a few times a day. The saltwater can help to break down the stones, making them easier to remove.
Drinking apple cider vinegar may also help to reduce the presence of tonsil stones. Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial properties that can help to kill bacteria that cause tonsil stones. Mix 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with 8 ounces of water and drink it a few times a day. You can also gargle with this mixture if desired.
Use a Water Flosser
Using a water flosser, or irrigator, is another way to help get rid of tonsil stones. A water flosser uses a stream of water to clean between teeth and around the gums. It can also be used to target the tonsil area and help to dislodge the stones. When using a water flosser, make sure to use a gentle setting, as the powerful stream of water can irritate the tonsils.
To use a water flosser, fill the reservoir with water and turn it on. Aim the tip at the back of your throat and press the button to release the water. Move the tip around the area to ensure all the stones have been removed. Rinse your mouth out with water afterwards.
Use a Cotton Swab
Another method of removing tonsil stones is to use a cotton swab. Gently insert the swab into the back of your throat and try to feel for any bumps or stones. Once you have located the stones, try to dislodge them by gently rubbing the swab against them. Be careful when doing this to avoid pushing the stones further back into your throat.
Consume Probiotics
Eating probiotic-rich foods can help to reduce the presence of tonsil stones. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help to keep the balance of good and bad bacteria in the body. Eating probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, and miso can help to reduce the amount of bad bacteria in the body, which can help to prevent tonsil stones from forming.
See Your Doctor
If natural remedies and over-the-counter treatments don’t work, it’s important to see your doctor. Your doctor may recommend a variety of medical treatments to help get rid of tonsil stones, such as antibiotics or laser therapy. Both of these treatments can help to reduce the presence of tonsil stones, but should only be used under the supervision of a doctor.
Conclusion
Tonsil stones can be an embarrassing and uncomfortable problem, but there are several natural remedies and medical treatments available to help get rid of them. Some of the most popular natural remedies include gargling with warm salt water, drinking apple cider vinegar, using a water flosser, and consuming probiotics. If these treatments don’t work, it’s important to see your doctor, who may recommend antibiotics or laser therapy. No matter what treatment you choose, it’s important to follow through with it to make sure the tonsil stones are gone for good.
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