Tonsil stones are small, hardened deposits that form in the crevices (called crypts) of your tonsils — the two small masses of lymphatic tissue located at the back of your throat. These crypts are perfectly normal, but for some people, they act like little trap doors for debris.
Over time, a mixture of:
- Dead cells
- Mucus
- Bacteria
- Food particles
What Do They Look and Smell Like?
As the image shows, tonsil stones often look like small, white or yellow lumps that resemble a grain of rice or a piece of popcorn. They can range in size from a grain of sand to a pea — sometimes even larger.
The real kicker? The smell. Tonsil stones often carry a very unpleasant odor due to the bacteria and sulfur compounds they harbor. If you’ve ever had one dislodge and noticed a sudden, awful taste in your mouth — that’s the reason.
Common Symptoms of Tonsil Stones
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