When your tonsils bring home unwanted guests: white lumps in the tonsil pocket.

Tonsil Stones

Although those bad smelling lumps can be uncomfortable, tonsil stones (also called tonsilloliths) are harmless. Hanging out in the tonsil pockets, they form when bacteria and mucous get trapped, leaving a hard piece of matter and a bad taste in your throat. You can remove small stones with a swab, but if they’re not bothering you, no treatment is necessary.