What are Tonsil Stones
Reviewed: Dr. Mera
2. Tonsil Calculus
The mechanism by which tonsilloliths appear is unknown, though several hypotheses have been proposed. Palatal tonsils will often have several small folds or pits that are known as tonsillar crypts. These crevices are usually debris free; however, sometimes as a result of repeated tonsillitis cellular (epithelial) debris can accumulate within.
Some tonsilloliths can also occur without a history of inflammatory disorders of the tonsils. Furthermore, this debris forms the ideal media for bacterial growth, which eventually occurs. Finally, the calcification of the tonsil stones occurs due to the deposition of inorganic salts from the saliva. The end result of this process, are white or yellow calculi within the tonsils.
