What type of doctor removes tonsil stones?

So, you want to know What type of doctor removes tonsil stones?

Good oral hygiene, including gargling with warm salt water, helps with managing tonsil stones. Tonsil stones can be surgically removed if necessary, by an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist.

Are tonsil stones a dental issue?

Although less common than cavities and gum disease, tonsil stones can cause serious problems if left untreated. Your dentist may first recommend treating your tonsil stone with at-home remedies like saltwater mouthwash or gargle with vinegar and water.

Do regular doctors remove tonsil stones?

If you cannot remove the stones yourself, your ENT doctor can perform a tonsil stone removal in their office. Laser tonsil cryptolysis uses a laser to eliminate the crypt where the stones are lodged. Severe and chronic cases may require a removal on the tonsils, known as a tonsillectomy.

Should I talk to my doctor or dentist about tonsil stones?

Tonsil stones are mostly harmless, even if they cause discomfort. They may dislodge or dissolve on their own, but they can also grow quite large or keep coming back. If you have large and/or recurrent tonsil stones, you should visit a doctor for removal and to find the underlying cause.

What type of doctor removes tonsil stones Related Questions

Should I see doctor or dentist for tonsil stones?

Usually, tonsil stones can be treated at home. But large stones that cause pain or other problems may have to be removed by a doctor. And if your tonsil stones keep coming back or are bothering you a lot, your doctor may recommend removing your tonsils. Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety.

Can tonsil stones rot your tonsils?

While rare, you may develop complications from tonsil stones. For example, the proliferation of bacteria within the stones can cause halitosis or bad breath and may also lead to tooth decay. Large tonsil stones can also damage and disrupt typical tonsil tissue.

Why am I suddenly getting tonsil stones?

Poor oral hygiene, as well as tobacco use, can increase the likelihood of tonsil stones. But in other individuals, it’s the structure of the tonsils themselves that makes them more prone to developing tonsil stones.

Can tonsil stones cause damage?

Tonsil stones are small lumps of hardened material that form on your tonsils, in the back of your throat. They usually don’t cause serious health problems. The main sign of tonsil stones is bad breath. You can usually try to get rid of tonsil stones using at-home methods, such as saltwater gargles.

Do I need to see an ENT for tonsil stones?

You may need to consult your ENT specialist if any of the following occur: You have symptoms of stones but cannot see them. You cannot remove the stone yourself or only a portion of it is removed. You have pain after removing a tonsil stone.

Is it bad to try to remove tonsil stones?

Pushing or Squeezing Out Stones “There is risk for injury to the tonsil and bleeding,” says Setlur. “There is a risk for vascular injury.” Even using a finger or toothbrush could scratch your tonsils, so if you do try this method of removal, try using a cotton swab.

What happens if I don’t remove tonsil stones?

In some cases, tonsil stones can lead to chronic tonsil inflammation or infection of your tonsils, called tonsillitis. But in many cases, they are simply a nuisance. If you have a history of developing tonsil stones, the best way to get rid of them permanently is to remove your tonsils.

How long can tonsil stones last?

If your tonsil stones don’t resolve within 1-3 weeks, it’s time to seek treatment from your ENT, dentist, or healthcare provider. If gargling, coughing, and other home remedies don’t work, your provider may recommend antibiotics or surgical removal.

Are tonsil stones permanent?

In most cases, tonsil stones are harmless buildup that will go away on their own or with proper oral hygiene and at-home removal.

How long do tonsil stones last untreated?

Sometimes, tonsil stones dissolve or dislodge on their own in a short time. They may last for weeks if the bacteria continue to grow. If untreated, tonsil stones may last for years.

Do tonsil stones leave a hole?

Sometimes, tonsil stones can grow, making holes in the tonsils larger and possibly prolonging an infection. Symptoms of tonsil stones include: a sore throat. bad breath.

What foods should you avoid with tonsil stones?

Foods To Be Avoided Alcohol and carbonated beverages must be avoided, as these beverages can cause intense pain, irritation, and burning sensation in the throat. Citrus fruits like oranges and lemons are acidic in nature, which may be too harsh on the throat and irritate the tonsils.

Does mouthwash help tonsillitis?

Rinse regularly using a mouthwash, gently swishing alcohol-free mouthwash around your mouth helps kill bacteria and loosen tonsil stones.

Can tonsil stones be spread through kissing?

Another common question someone might ask is, “If you have tonsil stones, does that mean you have to worry about passing it on to someone you love when you kiss them or share a cup or utensil?” The good news is that tonsil stones are not contagious.

How do you clean your tonsils?

Removing tonsil stones Using a cotton swab, gently push on the tonsil, behind the stone, to force the stone out. Vigorous coughing and gargling can dislodge stones, as well. Once the stone is out, gargle with salt water, to remove any remaining bacteria.

What toothpaste is good for tonsil stones?

Preventing Tonsil Stones Brush your teeth twice a day or after meals: Use an anti-bacterial toothpaste like Crest Pro-Health to better neutralize plaque and limit the spread of oral bacteria into the throat.

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