Have you ever coughed or cleared your throat and suddenly noticed a small, hard, white or yellowish lump come out of your mouth—followed by an extremely unpleasant smell?
The odor can be so strong it feels nauseating.
You’re not alone. These are commonly known as tonsil stones, or tonsilloliths, and they are one of the most overlooked reasons behind persistent bad breath—especially when brushing, flossing, and mouthwash don’t seem to help.
What Exactly Are Tonsil Stones?
Tonsil stones are small, hardened deposits that form inside the natural folds and pockets (called crypts) of the tonsils.
They develop when:
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Tiny food particles, dead cells, and mucus get trapped
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Bacteria (especially anaerobic bacteria) feed on this material
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Minerals in saliva—such as calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium—gradually harden the debris
Over time, these materials solidify into small “stones.”
