Tonsil stones form when debris such as food particles, dead cells, mucus, and bacteria get trapped in the crevices or crypts of the tonsils. Over time, this trapped debris hardens or calcifies into small, hard stones. Factors that contribute to the formation of tonsil stones include poor oral hygiene, chronic tonsillitis (repeated tonsil inflammation), enlarged tonsils with deeper crypts, dry mouth, diet (especially high in dairy or processed foods), bacterial growth, and mouth breathing often due to nasal congestion or allergies. People with larger, more irregular tonsils or those who breathe through their mouth are more prone to developing these stones. Tonsil stones are common in adults and older teenagers and can cause bad breath, throat irritation, and a feeling of something stuck in the throat, though they are usually harmless.
In summary, tonsil stones form because the tonsils have natural crevices that can trap various types of debris, which then calcify, especially in individuals with certain risk factors like poor oral hygiene, chronic inflammation, or mouth breathing.
