Tonsil stones are also known as tonsilloliths. They develop as a result of bacteria and other substances becoming trapped in pockets of the tonsils. The bacteria turns white and hardens or calcifies, creating tonsil stones. Tonsil stones occur most often in people who have chronic inflammation in their tonsils or repeated bouts of tonsillitis. Most people who develop tonsil stones usually develop tonsil stones are small. However, other people may develop tonsil stones that are very large and solidified. This is much rarer.