The tonsils' surfaces are irregular. Some people have pits and craters in their tonsils that are deep enough for food particles, bacteria, saliva or mucus to become caught in them. As these substances are pressed into the craters, they eventually develop into tonsil stones.

Is it normal to have pitted tonsils?

Holes in the tonsils, or tonsillar crypts, have an increased risk of developing infection or tonsil stones. Holes in the tonsils are a normal part of your anatomy. They give your immune system an early idea of what your body is ingesting by mouth.

Do tonsil craters go away?

Tonsil stones may dislodge or dissolve on their own in a short time. Tonsil stones may last for weeks if bacteria continue to grow on the tonsils due to tonsil stones deep in the throat. If tonsil stones are ignored and left in place without lifestyle changes, they may last for years.