Tonsil stone removal is something many people look up after noticing a small white lump at the back of the throat or bad breath that will not go away. Tonsil stones are common and usually harmless. This guide explains what they are, how they are managed at home, and when to see a doctor or dentist.
What are tonsil stones?
Tonsil stones, also called tonsilloliths, are small, hard lumps that form in the tiny pockets on the surface of your tonsils. They are made of calcium, food debris, bacteria and dead cells. Small stones usually cause no symptoms. Larger ones can be seen as white or yellow lumps on the tonsils.
Symptoms of tonsil stones
- bad breath
- a white or yellow lump on a tonsil
- a sore throat or the feeling that something is stuck
- difficulty swallowing
- earache
- a hoarse voice
How to get rid of tonsil stones at home
Tonsil stones often come away by themselves without treatment. Good oral hygiene helps them clear and makes them less likely to return:
- brush your teeth twice a day and clean between them daily
- clean your tongue gently with a soft toothbrush
- gargle with warm salt water
- use an antimicrobial mouthwash
- drink plenty of water
Do not try to dig a stone out with a sharp or pointed object. The tonsils bleed easily and can become infected.
Can a dentist remove tonsil stones?
A dentist can see tonsil stones during a mouth examination and can tell you whether they are likely to be the cause of bad breath. Just as importantly, a dentist can check for the dental causes of bad breath, such as gum disease, tooth decay, a coated tongue and a dry mouth, which are more common than tonsil stones.
Stones that keep coming back, are large, or cause pain or trouble swallowing are usually managed by a GP. In a small number of cases, an ear, nose and throat specialist may recommend removing the tonsils.
When to see a doctor
See your GP if you have:
- bad breath that does not improve with good oral hygiene
- ongoing throat discomfort or pain
- difficulty swallowing
- tonsil stones that return often
- a tonsil that is swollen on one side, or bleeding
Tonsil stones or something else?
Bad breath has many causes, and most of them start in the mouth. If you have cleaned your teeth and tongue carefully for a couple of weeks and the problem is still there, book a dental check-up. We can look for gum disease, decay and other causes, and tell you if your tonsils look like the source. See bad breath treatment in Penrith.
Tonsil stone FAQs
Are tonsil stones harmful?
Usually not. They are a nuisance more than a health risk, although large stones can be uncomfortable.
Are tonsil stones contagious?
No. They are made of material that collects in your own tonsils and cannot be passed to another person.
Do tonsil stones mean I have poor oral hygiene?
Not necessarily. Some people have deeper pockets in their tonsils and form stones even with good cleaning. Good oral hygiene still reduces them.
How can I prevent tonsil stones?
Brush and clean between your teeth every day, clean your tongue, gargle after meals and stay well hydrated.
Worried about bad breath?
If bad breath is bothering you, a check-up is a good place to start. Book an appointment at Penrith Dental Care or call (02) 4733 1197.
Source: Healthdirect Australia, Tonsil stones (last reviewed December 2024). This article is general information only and does not replace an assessment with a registered dental practitioner.
Looking for more dental health tips? Browse all articles on the Penrith Dental Care blog, or meet the Penrith Dental Care team. Have a question? See our dental FAQ.
Reviewed by Mina Gibryal, Penrith Dental Care, October 2026. This article is general information and does not replace advice from your own dental practitioner.