Tonsil Stones (Tonsilloliths) – Symptoms, Causes & Treatment in Casablanca

What Are Tonsil Stones?

Tonsil stones, also called tonsilloliths, are small white or yellow calcified formations that appear in the crypts of the tonsils. They are formed from trapped food particles, bacteria, mucus and dead cells that accumulate and harden over time.

Although benign, tonsil stones can lead to discomfort, bad breath and throat irritation.

Symptoms of Tonsil Stones

You may have tonsil stones if you notice:

• Persistent bad breath (halitosis)

• Sensation of a foreign body in the throat

• Mild or recurrent sore throat

• Ear pain without ear infection

• Visible white/yellow deposits on the tonsils

• Difficulty swallowing

• Metallic taste or unpleasant mouth odor

Why Do Tonsil Stones Form?

Tonsilloliths are more likely to appear when:

• Tonsillar crypts are deep

• There is recurrent/chronic tonsillitis

• Oral hygiene is poor

• Post-nasal drip or chronic sinusitis exists

• The mouth is dry

• The patient smokes

Are Tonsil Stones Dangerous?

Tonsil stones are not dangerous or contagious.
However, they can significantly reduce quality of life due to:

• Bad breath

• Recurrent throat irritation

• Anxiety related to oral odor

A medical exam helps confirm diagnosis and rule out other conditions.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is clinical, based on:

• Throat examination

• Medical history

• Exclusion of infection or abscess

Sometimes tonsil stones are discovered incidentally during routine check-ups.

Treatment Options at Dr. Zarrou Clinic – Casablanca

First-Line Management

• Oral hygiene & tongue brushing

• Saltwater or bicarbonate gargles

• Good hydration

• Occasional antiseptic mouth rinse

Medical Management

• Professional evaluation and removal when necessary

• Treatment of associated sinusitis or tonsillitis

• Preventive advice to reduce recurrence

Surgical Solutions (Selected Cases)

For persistent and severe tonsilloliths:

• Laser cryptolysis (reduces crypt depth)

• Tonsillectomy (only in severe cases)

When You Should See a Doctor

Book a consultation if you experience:

• Chronic bad breath

• Recurrent tonsil stones

• Painful swallowing

• Fever or unilateral throat swelling

• Persistent sore throat

• Bleeding or asymmetry of tonsils

Tonsil Stone Treatment in Casablanca – Dr. Zarrou

At Dr. Zarrou’s medical clinic in Casablanca, we offer:

• Accurate examination and diagnosis

• Gentle tonsil stone removal

• Individual treatment plans

• Follow-up and prevention steps

📍 Location: Casablanca
📞 Book your appointment online at www.docteurzarrou.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Can tonsil stones come back?

Yes. Tonsil stones can recur, especially in people with deep crypts or post-nasal drip.

Can I remove them at home?

It is possible, but unsafe manipulation may cause bleeding or infection. Medical removal is safer.

Do antibiotics work?

No. Antibiotics do not dissolve tonsil stones unless infection is present.

Are tonsil stones contagious?

No. They are not spread from person to person.