Amber Auger, writer at DentistryIQ, shares with us important information about tonsil stones– symptoms, prevention, and treatment options.
The tonsils offer many nooks and crannies that bacteria can use to thrive. The multiplying bacteria can become trapped, allowing mucous and dead cells to linger and form tonsil stones in the pockets of the tonsils. (1) Tonsil stones, also known as tonsilloliths, are formed when the trapped debris calcifies. The stones can lead to chronic inflammation and discomfort.
The most common symptom (and often the only symptom patients experience) is halitosis. If the tonsil stones are left untreated, bacteria continue to multiply and increase the inflammation of the tonsillar tissue. Symptoms of a severe throat and discomfort when swallowing are frequently experienced with tonsil stones that have gone undiagnosed and untreated. Additionally, patients can experience ear pain due to the swelling of the tonsils. (1)
When studying the bacteria causing inflammation of the tonsils, researchers have found both aerobic and anaerobic bacteria. One study reported that “[s]ome of the anaerobic bacteria produce volatile sulfur compounds such as hydrogen sulfide and methyl mercaptan. The volatile sulfur has been implicated in halitosis.” (2)Therefore, patients who are prone to tonsil stones should avoid pastes, rinses, and drinks, such as wines, that contain sulfur.
Patients that have postnasal drip, allergies, or colds are more prone to the formation of tonsil stones due to the mucus in the back of the throat. Implementing a natural xylitol-containing nasal spray, such as Xlear, two to three times daily can help eliminate the mucus and prevent the progression and formation of tonsil stones.
The active ingredient of xylitol works to reduce the amount of bacteria by increasing the salivary flow to create a moist environment that is oxygen-rich. (3) The oxygen-rich environment inhibits the bacteria. This can lead to prevention and eliminate the progression of tonsil stones. (3)
Reducing the amount of bacteria in the oral cavity will help prevent tonsil stones. Dental hygienists can advise patients to have meticulous home care with electric toothbrushes, flossing, and rinsing with sulfate-free products. Avoiding consuming beverages with carbonatation, sulfur, or dairy products will reduce the risk and growth of tonsil stones. (4)
If left untreated, tonsil stones can lead to severe throat and ear pain. Chronic tonsil stones can lead to the removal of the tonsils, which are a vital part of the immune system.E
Content source:
By Amber Auger, MPH, RDH https://www.dentistryiq.com/articles/2017/04/tonsil-stones-symptoms-prevention-and-treatment-in-the-dental-setting.html
Photo credit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tonsillolith
References
1. WebMD. Tonsil Stones. Available at: http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/tonsil-stones-tonsilloliths-treatment. Accessed March 2, 2017.
2. Ansai T, Takehara T. “Tonsillolith as a halitosis-inducing factor,” British Dental Journal, vol. 198, no. 5, pp. 263–264, 2005. Accessed March 2, 2017.
3. Xlear. Xlear Sinus Care. Available at: http://www.xlear.com/xlear-sinus-care/. Accessed March 2, 2017.
4. Kim C. How to Prevent Tonsil Stones.Tonsil Stone Advisor. Available at: http://tonsilstonesadvisor.com/how-to-prevent-tonsil-stones/. Accessed March 2, 2017.