small tonsil stones

Small tonsil stones, also known as tonsilloliths, are small, hard lumps that form in the tiny pockets or crevices of the tonsils. They are usually made up of hardened minerals like calcium, combined with food debris, dead cells, mucus, and bacteria. These stones are typically about the size of a small grain or piece of gravel. While generally harmless, small tonsil stones can cause symptoms such as bad breath (halitosis), throat irritation, discomfort when swallowing, and sometimes an unpleasant taste. They may appear as tiny white or yellow spots or clumps at the back of the throat and can sometimes be seen when looking into the mouth. Most people can manage small tonsil stones with good oral hygiene and gargling with salt water; larger or persistent stones may require medical attention or removal.