Before you learn how to get rid of tonsil stones fast, it’s important for you to understand what they are and how you got them in the first place. Tonsilloliths, commonly referred to as “tonsil stones” is caused by a build-up of calcium salts in the pockets of the tonsils. Once tonsil stones are formed, you’ll most likely start to feel bad breath, sore throat and occasional coughing.
You don’t have to live with the discomfort of tonsils stones or wait around for them to disappear. Here’s how to get rid of tonsil stones fast:
Use Your Tongue
Work with what you’ve already got: your tongue might actually be your best bet to get rid of those pesky tonsils stones fast. Move your tongue to the back of your mouth and try to press on the tonsils to break up the stones or at the very least, loosen them.
Push it using your Fingers
Make sure your hands are clean before you put them in your mouth by first washing them with soap and water. Also, be sure that your nails aren’t too long and sharp as scratching up your tonsils could result in more severe pain than the stones. Find your tonsils with your finger and then apply pressure. Start out with a small amount and increase the pressure until the tonsil stones pop out. Rinse your mouth out when you’re finished.
Gargle Water
You can also try flushing out the stones with some water. Mix a pinch of salt with a glass of warm water and gargle in attempt to loosen the stones.
Try a Toothbrush
When it comes to getting rid of tonsil stones fast, a toothbrush is another great tool that you can use to try to remove them at home. Use the soft side of a toothbrush and gently rub them. If the stones don’t break up, return to the previous step and try gargling water. The toothbrush may have at least loosened them enough for the water to do the rest of the job.
Consult a Doctor
If none of these at-home methods work and you’re still experiencing tonsil stones, it’s time to see a doctor. The doctor may prescribe antibiotics which will treat the accumulation of bacteria within the stones and help get rid of them once and for all.
In the future, you can avoid getting tonsil stones in the first place by simply practicing good oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a week or so will help remove the food particles from your mouth that can cause bacterial growth and result in tonsil stones. It may also helps to avoid breathing with your mouth open, especially while you sleep. This creates dry conditions in your mouth that lead to bacteria growth, which may in turn lead to more tonsil stones. Applying nasal strips at night should help keep your nostrils open so you don’t have to breathe through your nose.
References:
What is Tonsillolith (Wikipedia)
Getting rid of tonsil stones (tonsilstonesadvisor.com)
