Frequency of tonsilloliths in panoramic views of a selected population in Southern Iran

ABSTRACT

Statement of the Problem: Tonsilloliths are relatively common clusters of dystrophic calcified material that form in the tonsillar crypts, mostly the palatine tonsils. Although they may be asymptomatic, some cause halitosis, cough, dysphagia, and foreign body sensation, as well as otalgia. Since tonsilloliths can be detected on panoramic views as radiopaque lesions, and misdiagnosis may lead to wasting time and cost, dentist should be familiar with radiographic characteristics of this type of calcification.