Tonsil Stones and a Low Soft Palate: Seeking Clarity
I am a 34-year-old female and have been utilizing CPAP therapy to manage obstructive sleep apnea for nearly a year. It was only during a recent doctor's visit that I discovered my soft palate is positioned low while my tongue rests higher than usual. To be honest, I was unfamiliar with the terms "hard palate" and "soft palate" until now. The doctor examined my mouth and immediately commented, "No wonder you have breathing difficulties!" which was both amusing and enlightening. This situation also sheds light on why I always feel like my tongue obstructs dental procedures like cleanings. Additionally, I suspect I have tonsil stones, as I’ve managed to cough them out in the past. I’ve tried using a water flosser to remove them, inspired by techniques I’ve seen on the internet, but I can barely even see my tonsils! Manipulating my tongue downward is quite challenging, and the limited movement I can achieve doesn't last long enough to be effective. I’m unsure if this detail is significant, but I also have a bony projection on the roof of my mouth and feel that my hard palate is somewhat elevated. Just trying to provide as much detail as possible! So, here’s my inquiry: Can my dentist handle the professional removal of these tonsil stones, or is it necessary to consult with an ENT specialist? Moreover, would they have adequate access to perform the extraction?
Answers (1)
2/3/2026, 9:00:45 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you have several concerns regarding your anatomy and the presence of tonsil stones, and it's great that you're seeking clarity on these issues. Let's break this down into manageable parts.
Main Points:
- Your soft palate position and tongue placement can contribute to breathing difficulties, especially with your CPAP therapy.
- Tonsil stones can be annoying, and it's important to know that a dentist might not be the best option for their removal.
Understanding the Anatomy:
- The hard palate is the bony front part of the roof of your mouth, while the soft palate is the softer, fleshy part at the back. A low soft palate can sometimes obstruct your airway, which might explain the breathing issues associated with sleep apnea. The bony projection on your hard palate may indicate variations in the structure of your mouth, and while it might not directly relate to your health, it's good to keep your healthcare providers informed.
About Tonsil Stones:
- Tonsil stones (or tonsilloliths) form when debris, bacteria, and mucus accumulate in the crevices of your tonsils. This can lead to discomfort and even halitosis (bad breath).
Next Steps:
-
Consult with an ENT Specialist: Given your challenges with manipulating your tongue and accessing your tonsils, an ENT specialist (ear, nose, and throat doctor) is better equipped to assess and remove tonsil stones safely. They have specialized tools and techniques for this purpose.
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Consider Tonsil Health: While waiting for that appointment, practice good oral hygiene. Rinse your mouth with salt water or use a gentle mouthwash, which may help reduce potential irritation from tonsil stones.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of how often the stones occur and any related symptoms (like sore throat or difficulty swallowing). This information can be helpful for your ENT visit.
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Discuss CPAP Therapy: Bring up your concerns regarding the soft palate and its impact on your CPAP therapy during your ENT consultation. They may consider evaluating your treatment options, potentially adjusting your CPAP settings, or discussing surgical options if necessary.
Your concerns are valid, and it's essential to take actionable steps to manage your health effectively. Please let me know if you have any further questions or need additional clarification!
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