Tonsil stones are a naturally occurring build up of calcareous material in your tonsils. This material is not harmful, but is naturally produced in your mouth. Tonsil stones are also called tonsillolith, calculus of the tonsil and tonsillar debris.

Although they are called tonsil stones, these stones are actually located in the crevasses of the palatine tonsils. These are located at the bottom rear of your month and are actually part of your sinuses. The development of tonsil stones is usually causes by overactive salivary glands or oral bacteria.

A tonsil stone feels like there something stuck in the back of your throat. This sensation, together with bad breath and a sore throat can indicate the presence of tonsil stones. Tonsil stones are more common in adults than in children.

Tonsil stones are actually fairly soft and can be removed by the patient without need for medical intervention. The only difficulty with this is the gag reflex, which can be triggered by any device touching the back of the throat. To remove the tonsil stones, it is wise to be in your bathroom, in front of a sink.

The easiest way to determine if you have a tonsil stone is to look in the mirror. Open your mouth wide and look into the back corners of your mouth. If you see a white or yellowish spot surrounded by flesh, you have a tonsil stone.

To remove a tonsil stone, try sucking on a lollipop. The suction pressure often causes the tonsil stone to dislodge and fall into your mouth. If this doesn't work, try using a clean Popsicle stick or your finger to press against the bottom of the tonsil.

The sensation may be unpleasant, but the stone will usually pop out and can be spit out into the sink. Another method is to use a water pick to flush the tonsil stone out by pushing salt water on it. Tonsil stones very rarely require medical intervention, although they can be removed in a doctor's office if required.

To prevent tonsil stones, add mouthwash rinse or salt water rinse to your daily oral cleaning routine. Make sure to brush your teeth well to remove any food build up and reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth. Try drinking a glass of water at the end of every meal to rinse out food particles.