Hi, my name is Dr. Martin Buchheit. Today in the Town and Country Cosmetic Dentistry and Implant Center dental blog I would like to address the subject of tonsil stones. “What in the world are tonsil stones?” you might be asking.
Before we answer that, let’s review what the tonsils are. Your tonsils sit in the back of your throat. They are gland-like and there is one tonsil located in each pocket on either side of the back of your throat. Tonsils are made of the infection-fighting tissue known as lymphocytes, but tonsils aren’t really that efficient at their job of germ killing.
Tonsils have many areas where dead cells, mucous, and bacteria can become trapped. If this debris accumulates and becomes concentrated, white formations can occur in the pockets. Once it hardens, it becomes a tonsil stone.
It is rare for these tonsil stones to become large and cause problems, but if they do, you may experience the following symptoms:
Bad breath
Sore throat
Difficulty swallowing
Ear pain
Swelling of tonsils
If your tonsils begin to hurt, it’s vital to discuss treatment with your Chesterfield dentist or doctor. The only sure-fire way to avoid tonsil stones is to have the tonsils completely removed, but very few cases become this serious.
Thank you for visiting my dental blog. I am enthusiastic about the oral health of my Chesterfield area patients.
In addition, I want my patients to have the sensational smiles that they desire. If you aren’t happy with your smile, I invite you to consider the many cosmetic dentistry procedures available, such as teeth whitening, veneers, invisible braces, dental bonding, and dental implants.
For general, pediatric, or cosmetic dentistry, call 314-576-0088 today to schedule an appointment with us!
Dr. Martin Buchheit
Town and Country Cosmetic Dentistry and Implant Center
314-576-0088
https://www.townandcountrycosmeticimplantdentistry.com/blog/
14377 Woodlake Dr Ste 205
Chesterfield, Missouri 63017
The following online article was used as source material for this blog:
“Tonsil Stones”, WebMD, http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/tonsil-stones-tonsilloliths-treatment-and-prevention, accessed on September 11, 2013
