How much does teeth cleaning (dental scaling) cost in Mainland China, and how is the pricing calculated

How much does teeth cleaning cost in Mainland China? A practical pricing guide for Hong Kong patients In recent years, many Hong Kong residents have headed north for dental care, and teeth cleaning (scaling and polishing) is one of the most common services. The biggest concerns are usually the price, whether there are hidden fees, and how to get good value with peace of mind. This guide breaks down how cross‑border teeth cleaning is priced, what to watch out for, and how to prepare before you go. What’s typically included in a teeth cleaning - Basic oral exam - Ultrasonic scaling to remove tartar (calculus) - Stain removal and polishing - Some clinics also include oral hygiene instruction and gum (periodontal) assessment. You may be advised to take dental X‑rays to assess gum and bone health. - Add‑ons done during the same visit—such as air polishing, fluoride varnish application, or deep periodontal cleaning—are considered extra and usually billed separately. What the price is made up of Cross‑border teeth cleaning fees generally combine several components: - Consultation/registration fee: A first visit often has a basic consultation charge; follow‑up visits may differ. - Basic scaling and polishing: Ultrasonic tartar removal plus simple polishing. - New‑patient items: A comprehensive exam or imaging done at your first visit may be listed separately. - Periodontal therapy: If tartar build‑up is heavy or gums are inflamed, deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) may be needed. This costs more than basic cleaning. - Consumables and infection control: Single‑use tools and sterilization processes; some clinics itemize these clearly. - Add‑on services: Air polishing for stains, medicaments, desensitizing treatments, etc., are added as needed. Key factors that affect the cost - City and location: Clinics in Shenzhen’s core business districts or near border crossings are priced differently from neighborhood clinics or those in surrounding cities. - Dentist’s experience and equipment: Senior clinicians, imported equipment, and more comfortable facilities typically command higher fees. - Your oral condition: Amount of tartar, gum bleeding, and periodontal pocket depth determine whether basic cleaning is enough or advanced treatment is required. - First visit vs. return visit: First‑time patients often need a full exam or imaging for baseline records. - Technique and plan: Ultrasonic scaling alone vs. adding air polishing or Guided Biofilm Therapy; newer techniques are generally charged separately. - Appointment timing: Peak slots, weekends, and holidays may affect available packages and discounts. Common pricing models - Itemized pricing: Every service is listed clearly; you pay for exactly what’s done—high transparency. - Packages/bundles: Exam + basic cleaning combined; some throw in small extras. Check what’s included. - New‑customer offers/membership s: Welcome deals for first‑timers or membership plans for regular cleanings. Compare validity periods and participating branches. - Platform booking discounts: Mini‑programs or booking platforms may offer e‑vouchers. Watch out for non‑stacking rules. Booking and preparation tips - Clarify inclusions: Ask whether the first‑visit exam, imaging, polishing, and air polishing are included, and whether there’s a separate consumables/infection control fee. - Understand add‑on pricing: For example, how the clinic evaluates and recommends deep periodontal cleaning if needed. - Payment methods: Confirm whether they accept cash, Mainland e‑wallets (WeChat Pay/Alipay), UnionPay/credit cards, any handling fees, and whether a real‑name Mainland payment account is required. - Time planning: Basic cleaning takes around 30–60 minutes; a first‑visit exam can make it longer. Allow time for border crossing and transport. - Documents and health info: Bring your Home Return Permit. Disclose allergies and chronic conditions; pregnant patients or those with pacemakers should inform the clinic in advance. - Hygiene and compliance: Look for visible sterilization protocols, single‑use packaging, and whether official receipts or fapiao are provided. How to judge quality and avoid hard selling - Check reviews beforehand. Focus on genuine cases and reputation, not just décor. - Ask for findings before treatment. A good dentist explains gum status and options. - Insist on a quote before proceeding. You can request a printed treatment plan and itemized list. - If pressured to buy whitening, orthodontics, or other services unrelated to your visit, feel free to decline. Helpful comfort tips - Use a desensitizing toothpaste for a few days before the appointment to reduce sensitivity. - On the day, avoid very hot or very cold drinks. For 1–2 days after, eat mildly and follow your dentist’s advice on brushing and flossing. - If you have persistent gum bleeding, bad breath, or loose teeth, don’t rely on cleaning alone—seek periodontal treatment. Frequently asked questions - Does it hurt? Most people feel mild soreness or sensitivity. If your gums are inflamed, you may be more sensitive—ask your dentist about comfort options. - Do I need X‑rays? It depends on your periodontal condition. Not required every time, but a baseline at the first visit gives a clearer picture. - Can I return to Hong Kong the same day? Usually yes. Just allow enough time and avoid cutting it too close for the last train/bus. Summary Mainland teeth‑cleaning prices are determined by a combination of items performed, techniques used, your oral condition, and clinic positioning. You don’t need to memorize numbers; the key is to confirm what’s included, how add‑ons are defined, and the billing rules. Choose a transparent, professional clinic with good communication so your cleaning is both reassuring and good value.