A member asked:

I have tonsil stones.white smelly things on my right tonsil. i don't get them a lot and they go away in few days.should i get my tonsils removed?

3 doctors weighed in across 2 answers

Your call: Some folks use a penlight and paper clip to get rid of them. Contrary to what you'll read online, they are made of keratin rather than collagen and form in the crypts. They're common and i've heard of laser resurfacing of the tonsils to prevent them from forming.

Answered 9/28/2016

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Dr. William Culviner answered

Specializes in ENT and Head and Neck Surgery

Probably not: This is a very common problem. Most people can manage the condition by frequent gargling with listerine or hydrogen peroxide, gently brushing over the area with a soft brush, or using a water pik to dislodge them. Sometimes the tonsils may become chronically infected, painful, or swollen. Then it may be time to consider removal. You should see an otolaryngologist and discuss.

Answered 1/4/2016

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