When debris like bits of food, bacteria, dead cells, mucus, etc. get trapped in the crevices of the tonsils, it can calcify and become what is called a “tonsil stone”. These tiny stones can go undetected for quite some time and do not pose a risk to your health. However, the number one complaint of people that have them is unrelenting bad breath.

Tonsil stones are made up of anaerobic bacteria which produce volatile sulfur compounds. The result is a pungent aroma that is difficult to get rid of. Though this may seem like a minor issue, when bad breath is ongoing and long-term, it can be stressful.

If a patient is experiencing chronic halitosis, we will complete a thorough assessment of their tonsils and throat. If they are a candidate, we may suggest tonsil stone cryptolysis. This procedure removes all tonsil stones and tonsil crypts through a coblation device, leaving a tiny rim of tonsil tissue. This does not injure the throat and the process decreases surgical pain.

The procedure takes approximately 30 minutes and is performed under a general anesthetic. The patient can go home the same day and will have minimal recovery time (typically 3 – 5 days). Tonsil stone cryptolysis typically cures the issue of tonsil stones and chronic halitosis.