If you have bad breath, check your tonsils for white or yellow spots. These could be **tonsil stones** (tonsilloliths), formed from trapped food, bacteria, and minerals like calcium. They have a cheese-like texture and typically cause bad breath and mild throat discomfort.

### **Common Symptoms:**
– Sore throat or trouble swallowing
– Metallic taste in the mouth
– Swollen tonsils
– Ear pain or pressure
– Persistent cough
– Tonsil infections

### **Diagnosis and Treatment:**
Tonsil stones are easily visible and usually diagnosed through a simple throat exam. Treatment options include:
– **Self-removal:** Gently remove with a cotton swab or gargle salt water.
– **Medicated gargles:** Reduce bacteria buildup.
– **Oral irrigators:** Flush out debris.
– **Coughing or carbonated drinks:** Help dislodge stones.
– **Surgery:** In severe cases, a tonsillectomy may be necessary.

### **Prevention Tips:**
– Gargle salt water regularly
– Maintain good oral hygiene
– Manage allergies
– Brush or scrape your tongue

Although usually harmless, consult a doctor if symptoms persist.