If I go to Mainland China for a teeth cleaning, will they remove all the tartar (dental calculus) as well
Going north for a teeth cleaning: will they remove all the tartar?
In recent years, many people in Hong Kong have been traveling to Mainland China for teeth cleaning. Beyond price, the most common question is: does a cleaning always remove all tartar? The short answer: a standard professional cleaning (usually ultrasonic scaling) is designed to remove plaque, soft deposits, stains, and calculus (tartar), especially the visible buildup above the gumline. However, deep tartar below the gums may not be completely cleared in one visit. It depends on your periodontal condition, how deep the deposits are, and whether you’re having a routine cleaning or a deep cleaning (periodontal scaling and root planing).
Why it may not be fully cleared in one session
- Above-gum tartar (supragingival calculus) is easier to dislodge. Below-gum deposits (inside periodontal pockets) often require quadrant-by-quadrant deep cleaning and sometimes a little local anesthetic. This is usually done over multiple visits to avoid overly long sessions, excessive bleeding, or gum fatigue.
- Proper assessment may include periodontal charting (measuring pocket depths) and dental X-rays to identify hidden calculus on root surfaces.
- Aiming for “zero calculus” is neither realistic nor better. Over-instrumentation can damage enamel/cementum and traumatize the gums, slowing healing. The professional goal is thorough plaque and calculus removal to make root surfaces smoother, reduce inflammation, and decrease bleeding.
How to tell if the cleaning went well
- Along the gumline, you don’t feel obvious hard, gritty bumps; surfaces feel smoother.
- Bleeding with brushing subsides over a few days, and breath improves.
- The dentist explains your periodontal status, gives home-care advice, and schedules follow-up or deep cleaning if needed.
What to watch out for when going north for a cleaning
- Sterilization and hygiene: look for single-use items where appropriate, heat-sterilized instruments, and intact sterile pouch seals—basic infection control standards.
- Communication: disclose your medical history (heart issues, diabetes, pregnancy, drug allergies). Confirm whether you’re getting a routine cleaning or deep cleaning, and whether X-rays or periodontal charting are needed.
- Records and continuity of care: ask for exam notes and X-rays so you can continue care back in Hong Kong. Periodontal disease isn’t fixed in
one go; planned follow-ups are best.
- Time planning: deep cleaning typically takes multiple sessions. If your schedule is tight, you may only get a superficial clean; deep areas may need to be completed later.
Common myths, explained
- “Cleaning makes gaps bigger or teeth loose.” Often, calculus and swollen gums were “filling” spaces. Once deposits are removed and inflammation subsides, spaces look more obvious. If bone loss is present, looseness existed beforehand; cleaning reveals it, it’s not the cause.
- “Teeth cleaning is always painful.” Most people feel vibration and a cold sensation. Sensitive spots can feel zings. Inflamed gums may be tender and bleed a little—that’s a normal response. Severe cases can be managed with local anesthesia during deep cleaning.
- “Cleaning equals whitening.” No. Scaling removes tartar and external stains, so teeth look cleaner, but it isn’t the same as bleaching.
Aftercare tips
- For 24–48 hours, avoid dark drinks (coffee, strong tea, red wine) and very spicy or hot foods to let gums rest.
- Mild soreness or sensitivity is common. Use a desensitizing toothpaste and warm salt-water rinses.
- If bleeding doesn’t improve or swelling/pain worsens, book a prompt review.
Daily oral care is the real key
- Brush twice daily with proper technique, and clean between teeth with floss or interdental brushes.
- Use fluoride toothpaste; brush for about two minutes and gently clean your tongue.
- Depending on your gum health, schedule checkups every 3–6 months. With a history of periodontitis, you may need more frequent maintenance as advised.
- Lifestyle matters: reduce smoking and alcohol, and control sugar intake to protect gum health.
Bottom line: Can a northbound cleaning “remove all tartar”? It can remove most deposits, but “completely” depends on your gums and the scope of treatment. A routine cleaning targets above-gum buildup; deep, below-gum deposits require staged periodontal deep cleaning (scaling and root planing). Choose a clinic with strong professionalism, hygiene, and clear communication, and pair that with good home care and regular reviews to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Keywords to help you find relevant info: teeth cleaning, ultrasonic scaling, plaque and tartar removal, deep cleaning, scaling and root planing (SRP), gum disease, periodontal pockets, dental X-rays, infection control, Hong Kong to Mainland China dental care.
