Another procedure is laser tonsil cryptolysis, in which a laser is used to remove the tonsil crypts and resurface the troublesome areas. There’s also coblation cryptolysis, a procedure that uses lower temperatures and utilizes radio frequency and saline to smooth out crevices in the tonsils.
As with any surgery, these procedures have risks, including pain, bleeding, and infection. That’s why many people opt to take measures to prevent tonsil stones from forming and deal with tonsil stones when they crop up rather than go under the knife (or laser or radio waves).
But some people may be so bothered by tonsil stones symptoms, like bad breath or persistent and frequent stones, that they opt for surgery, Thatcher says. Some people may cough up irksome stones every couple of days. For others, it’s how the stones and symptoms affect their career or social life. If your job requires you to interact with people frequently, for example, or if you’re a dentist who needs to be in close proximity to patients, chronic bad breath can be problematic, Thatcher says.
Sometimes, frequent tonsil stones may increase your risk of tonsillitis, or infection of the tonsils, Setlur says.
The key to deciding whether or not to choose tonsillectomy to prevent tonsil stones is to understand the risks and go over your options with your doctor. “Discuss the benefits and complications,” Thatcher says. “It’s very personal. Weigh and balance how deeply it affects your life.”
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