Happy Tuesday—and happy holidays—everyone! Only dental professionals should be removing tonsil stones, but an alarming oral health trend on TikTok features users removing them at home. This "DIY" removal can introduce bacteria, cause infections, bleeding, and scarring in the mouth. Check out today's lead article to learn more about tonsil stones and how to dissuade patients from taking matters into their own hands.

In today's edition:

🪨 Tonsil stones: A comprehensive overview

🎺 How long do my dental hygiene instruments last?

🐎 Saddle stools: Finding that perfect fit

✨ Chairside Connection: Perspectives on teeth whitening