Tonsil stones, or tonsilloliths, are often associated with adults, but did you know that kids can get them too? While tonsil stones are more common in teens and adults, young children are getting them too! As a parent, it’s important to understand what tonsil stones are, how they affect kids, and what you can do to help them safely remove them.
How Do Kids Get Tonsil Stones?
Kids have tonsils just like adults, and in some cases, these tonsils have small pits or crevices where debris can collect. These pits are a natural part of the tonsils, but they can be a breeding ground for bacteria when food particles, mucus, and bacteria get trapped. Though tonsil stones more commonly develop during the teenage years, younger children may experience them too. Individuals with larger tonsils or those who are prone to allergies and colds may experience more frequent tonsil stone formation.
Symptoms of Tonsil Stones in Kids
It can be difficult to tell if a child has tonsil stones, as they may not always be visible or cause immediate discomfort. However, here are some common signs to look for:
Bad Breath: A strong, unpleasant odor in the mouth, which is often described as smelling like rotten eggs, is a classic sign of tonsil stones.
Sore Throat: If your child complains that it feels like something is stuck in their throat, tonsil stones might be the cause.
Visible White Spots: If your child allows you to look inside their mouth, you may notice small white spots on their tonsils, which are the tonsil stones sticking out of the tonsil pits and crypts.
How to Help Your Child with Tonsil Stones
If your child has tonsil stones, there are a few ways you can help them find relief:
Be Proactive About Talking to Kids About Tonsil Stones:Start the conversation early and openly with your child about tonsil stones. Explain what tonsil stones are, why they happen, and how they can be safely removed before they learn from their friends or social media platforms like TikTok. This proactive approach helps reduce any anxiety your child may have if they experience symptoms and empowers them to take charge of their oral health.
Gently Remove Tonsil Stones with Supervision: For kids who are comfortable with it, tonsil stones can be gently removed using a specialized tonsil stone removal tool. Make sure they are removing their tonsil stones with your supervision and using safe techniques and age appropriate tools. Adults share with us that they use their fingers, bobby pins, chopsticks, pens, pencils - anything to get them out! To avoid this risky removal behavior from starting it is important to make sure kids are only using parent approved tools.
Encourage Good Oral Hygiene: Teaching your child to brush their teeth regularly, floss, and rinse with mouthwash can help reduce bacteria and debris that can lead to tonsil stones.
Consult a Pediatrician: If tonsil stones are challenging to remove consult a healthcare provider to discuss options. In some cases, a tonsillectomy, the surgical removal of the tonsils may be recommended.
When to Seek Medical Help
If tonsil stones are causing significant pain, discomfort, or recurring infections in your child, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. A doctor can assess the situation and recommend whether further intervention is necessary.
