TONSILS
(Part 4)
What Happens When You Ignore Your Tonsil Stones and How Are They Diagnosed?
In the vast majority of cases, tonsil stones are small and asymptomatic. However, there are also instances when professional intervention becomes necessary.
By promptly seeking medical advice, you can address any underlying health issue(s) to prevent any complications from worsening.
So, what happens if you leave tonsil stones untreated?
- One, your bad breath will surely persist. That can reach a point where your self-esteem will get lowered as more and more people will hesitate to socialize with you. Some people may even give the cruelest remarks.
- Ignoring this oral health problem can also cause throat infections and, In severe cases, abscesses. For the latter, more health-concerning effect, the tonsilloliths have damaged the tonsillar tissue enough to make it more vulnerable to infections.
All these underline the importance of seeking timely treatment despite the severity of your condition.
When diagnosing tonsilloliths, healthcare professionals begin with a physical examination centered on the mouth and throat.
Using a lighted instrument, visible stones or hints of inflammation will be checked first.
If your stones are not easily visible, the medical professional will recommend a throat X-ray or CT scan for precise identification of the stones’ presence and size.
Certain cases may also need the expertise of an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist.
ENTs use specialized tools to get a clearer view of the tonsils and surrounding areas.
These procedures are swift and non-invasive, so knowing this hopefully lessens any hesitations to undergo diagnosis.
This enables healthcare providers to find the best treatment for you.
How Can Dentists Help Treat Tonsilloliths?
Among the possible treatment options, a trusted dentist can be a reliable professional who provides the first line of care. These professionals can conduct thorough examinations and offer you possible treatment options.
While dentists are highly capable of diagnosing and treating tonsilloliths, their focus is usually on treating smaller stones.
So, for severe or recurring cases, your dentist may refer you to an ENT specialist.
What are the most common tonsil stone treatment a dental practice can offer?
- Manual removal. Your dentist may use specialized tools to dislodge and remove any accessible debris from the affected area. For most patients, this procedure is quick and relatively painless, although some may complain about minor discomfort.
- In addition to treating minor tonsillolith cases, dentists can also help you improve your oral care routine. Most would recommend regular brushing and flossing, with some even prescribing an antiseptic mouthwash to lessen the likelihood of future stones from developing. (To be continued)