Brush teeth and tongue at least twice daily
Floss daily
Gargle warm salt water (½ tsp salt in 8 oz/240 mL water) 2–4 times daily
Stay well hydrated
Use an alcohol-free mouthwash daily
Use a gentle water flosser on a low setting aimed at the tonsil area
Use a soft toothbrush to carefully brush the tonsil surface (avoid forcing)
If safe for you, use a cotton swab to gently dislodge visible debris without scraping deeply
Treat nasal congestion and post-nasal drip (saline nasal rinse, allergy management)
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol-based mouthwashes
If you have frequent reflux, manage gastroesophageal reflux (diet changes, reflux treatment)
See an ENT if tonsilloliths are recurrent, large, painful, or associated with bad breath that won’t improve
Seek urgent care if you have fever, severe sore throat, difficulty swallowing, worsening one-sided pain, or trouble breathing