**Tonsil stones**, or tonsilloliths, are small, smelly white or yellow lumps that form in the folds of your tonsils. They’re made from dead cells, food, mucus, and bacteria that harden over time. Many are harmless and go unnoticed, but larger ones can cause **bad breath**, sore throat, or the feeling of something stuck in your throat. They often look like “small grains of rice or popcorn” and may be noticed after coughing or sneezing.

You’re more likely to get them if you have deep tonsil crypts, poor oral hygiene, post-nasal drip, or if you breathe through your mouth while sleeping. Though usually harmless, some stones may become painful or infected.

To remove them, you can **gargle salt water**, use a **water flosser**, or gently press with a cotton swab. Avoid using sharp tools. For stubborn or recurring stones, treatments like **antibiotics, laser therapy, or tonsil removal** may be necessary.

Prevention involves good oral hygiene: **brush your teeth and tongue**, floss daily, drink water, and use mouthwash and tongue scrapers. While not fully preventable, being aware of your tonsil structure and habits can help reduce how often they form.