Step-by-Step Guide to Teeth Cleaning in Mainland China A Must-Read for First-Timers
Step-by-Step Guide to Teeth Cleaning in Mainland China A Must-Read for First-Timers
Mainland China teeth cleaning guide for Hong Kong residents: a must-read for first-timers
Why more people are going north for a dental cleaning
Many Hong Kong residents choose to get their teeth cleaned in Mainland China. Beyond trying different dental services, common reasons include flexible booking, newer equipment, and faster workflows. It’s normal to feel a bit nervous on your first visit, but follow this step-by-step guide and your appointment should go smoothly.
Before you go
- Documents: Bring your Home Return Permit and check its validity before crossing the border.
- Booking: Make an appointment in advance by phone, WeChat, or mini-program. Note your preferred language (Cantonese or Mandarin) to make communication easier.
- Records: Prepare past dental records (for example, recent fillings or a history of gum inflammation). A panoramic X-ray (OPG) helps but isn’t essential.
- Health status: If you’ve had recent gum swelling or pain, fever, or are in early pregnancy, consult a dentist first before proceeding.
At the clinic: what to expect
- Check-in: Report to the front desk and complete basic information and medical history. Some clinics will take your blood pressure or do a brief oral screening first.
- Examination and discussion: The dentist will ask about your habits (brushing technique, bad breath, bleeding gums) and will assess your gingival index and where calculus has built up.
- Imaging: Many clinics recommend a panoramic X-ray or small intraoral films (bitewings/periapicals) to evaluate periodontal status and detect hidden caries. If imaging shows significant periodontal issues, treatment may be staged.
Teeth cleaning steps explained
1) Ultrasonic scaling: An ultrasonic tip vibrates to remove tartar (calculus) along the gumline, behind the front teeth, and in the grooves of molars. Hearing a buzzing or popping sound is normal; mild soreness can occur.
2) Deep cleaning (as needed): If calculus is heavy or gums are inflamed, the dentist may perform deeper subgingival scaling or root planing, sometimes by quadrants, to avoid excessive discomfort in one session.
3) Air polishing and prophy: Fine powder is used to lift stains (coffee, tea, tobacco), then polishing paste is applied to smooth the tooth surface and reduce plaque adherence.
4) Fluoride or medicated care: Fluoride varnish may be applied to strengthen against cavities; medicaments may be placed on inflamed areas if needed.
5) Oral hygiene instruction: You’ll be shown proper brushing technique and how to use floss or interdental brushes, and you’ll identify common plaque traps together.
Aftercare: what to do post-cleaning
- Avoid very hot or very cold foods and drinks for the first two hours to reduce sensitivity.
- For 24 hours, avoid dark-coloured foods and beverages (coffee, strong tea, red wine) and try not to smoke, to prevent immediate restaining.
- Minor gum bleeding is common and usually settles within a day or two. If redness,
swelling, or pain persists, contact the clinic promptly.
- For sensitive teeth, use a desensitising toothpaste, switch to a soft-bristle brush, and clean gently with small circular motions.
- Keep up good habits: Brush morning and night for two minutes, use floss or interdental brushes daily, and attend regular check-ups.
Tips for first-timers
- When booking, ask about the estimated duration, whether imaging is included, and what aftercare guidance is provided, so you can plan your return trip.
- Early time slots are usually quieter with shorter waits. Have a light snack beforehand to avoid feeling unwell on an empty stomach.
- Check clinic hygiene and single-use items: Gloves, mouth mirrors, and suction tips should be disposable; look for evidence of high-temperature sterilisation for instruments.
- Make sure the dentist explains the process, risks, and treatment options clearly. Transparent communication is important.
- Language: Most clinics in Qianhai, Futian, and Nanshan are familiar with Cantonese, but noting your preference in advance makes things smoother.
Frequently asked questions
- Does scaling damage teeth? Standard ultrasonic scaling targets tartar and plaque and does not abrade enamel. Mild soreness or sensitivity often happens because gums are healing after tartar removal and need time to adapt.
- How often should I get a cleaning? Typically every 6 to 12 months. If you smoke or drink frequently, have larger interdental gaps, or poorer periodontal indices, consider every 3 to 6 months.
- Can I get fillings or whitening at the same visit? It depends on the examination. Usually scaling is completed first, then other treatments are assessed. Doing too many procedures in one visit can increase discomfort.
- What’s different between Mainland China and Hong Kong? The process is broadly similar. Some Mainland clinics have newer imaging equipment and more flexible online booking, and may perform more systematic periodontal assessments. Wherever you go, prioritise licensed clinics with strict sterilisation standards.
How to choose a reliable clinic
- Clear credentials: Dental practice licence and dentists’ qualifications are clearly displayed.
- Reviews: Look for genuine user feedback on the environment, staff attitude, and post-treatment follow-up.
- Reasonable treatment plans: Care is tailored to your periodontal status, without hard-selling unnecessary procedures.
- Good follow-up: You receive aftercare instructions and recall recommendations; prompt follow-up can be arranged when needed.
Summary
Getting your teeth cleaned in Mainland China is straightforward. The keys are clear booking and communication, choosing a reputable licensed clinic, and following post-treatment care. Go in with a relaxed mindset, follow the steps above, and you’ll notice smoother tooth surfaces that are easier to keep clean. Long-term oral health comes from consistent home care plus regular professional scaling and polishing.
