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# Here’s What You Need to Know About Tonsil Stones
Despite their unpleasant reputation, tonsil stones—medically known as *tonsilloliths*—are usually harmless. However, they can be uncomfortable, embarrassing, and confusing, especially if you don’t know what’s causing them or how to deal with them.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about tonsil stones: what they are, why they form, how to recognize them, how they’re treated, and when you should seek medical advice.
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## What Are Tonsil Stones?
Tonsil stones are **small, hardened deposits** that form in the crevices of the tonsils. They are made up of a combination of:
* Dead cells
* Mucus
* Food particles
* Bacteria
Over time, these materials can calcify (harden), forming stone-like clusters that lodge in the tonsillar crypts—natural pockets in the tonsils.
They can range in size from tiny grains of rice to larger, more noticeable formations.
