Expert: Mark Bornfeld DDS - 9/2/2006

Question
I am 24 years old, and on asthma medication.  I think I also have TMJ.  I do not know if that is relevant or not.  Here is my problem.  Every once and awhile I will sneeze or cough really hard and these really stinky, kind of off white, granule like things come into my mouth.  They are mushy and gross. They smell HORRIBLE.  I do not know what they are, and I have searched everywhere and would be very happy if you might know.  Thank you for your time.

Answer
Dear Jessica,

In all probability, what you are describing are small concretions that form within the folds in the surface of the palatine tonsils; they are technically referred to as "tonsilloliths". As you have noticed, they can sometimes become dislodged by a sudden cough or sneeze; otherwise, they are inconspicuous.

Other than their less than appetizing odor and appearance, tonsilloliths are perfectly normal, and do not reflect any disease state.

Hope this helps...

Mark Bornfeld DDS
www.dentaltwins.com
Brooklyn, NY