Tonsil stones or tonsilloliths is a group of calcified materials that accumulates in the back of the mouth, usually in the tonsillar crypts of the tonsils.
In rare cases, these can also form on the roof of the mouth or in the throat.
Looking at the anatomy of the tonsils, you will notice that there are a lot of crevices in which bacteria, foreign materials, dead cells and mucus can be trapped.
When this happens, these remains become clustered into white formations.
As the debris becomes calcified, tonsilloliths are formed.
The calcified matter is mainly composed of calcium salts such as oxalates, calcium carbonate apatite and other magnesium salts.
People who are most likely to have tonsilloliths or zot are those who suffer from recurring tonsillitis or from repeated inflammation of tonsils.
It also occurs in adults more than in children.
In general, tonsil stones don't manifest any discernible symptoms.
But some people who were suspected of having them complain of coughing fits, metallic taste, choking and difficulty in swallowing due to throat tightening.
For large tonsilloliths symptoms may include chronic halitosis accompanied by tonsil infection, otalgia and tonsil swelling.
Surface tonsilloliths or tonsil stone can be brushed away with a toothbrush.
Other simple self-treatment includes using a cotton swab or pressing a finger against the base of the tonsils then pushing upward.
The pressure applied will help squeeze out the stones.
For larger stones or if needed curettage is recommended, if all else fails then tonsillectomy might be the best treatment.