Is there a way to take care of Tonsil Stones?

I have read the other question(s) on the site, but mine is more specific. I am currently taking throat losenges to help with the pain that comes with swallowing (or, if I haven't taken a pain reliever, talking). The other question suggests that you can use a swab to take them out, but I want to treat the problem, not the side effects. I went to an urgent care center the first time we noticed it, and they charged me over $120 and prescribed a tosilitis antibiotic. It seemed to work, but the prescription was for 5 days, and it's been gone for a week now and the pain is back. No-one seems to be able to treat the problem. Is the only solution to get my tonsils removed? I have heard it takes a while to recover, which will not be fun seeing as I am in college now, so I can't afford to miss days. Also, I was told by my doctor that people cannot get their tonsils removed unless they are tested positive for Strep 4 time in one year. It seems like the only options to relieve my suffering are to stick things down my throat and pull out the stones or go around trying to get Strep. Help!