### Is Dental Cleaning Necessary Before Getting Implants in Mainland China?
In recent years, many Hong Kong residents have considered traveling to mainland China for dental treatments, especially for dental implants. The reasons are straightforward: more choices, advanced technology, and convenient transportation. However, before deciding to get implants across the border, many people ask: Is it necessary to have a dental cleaning first? This question is quite crucial because dental cleaning and implants, though distinct procedures, are closely related.
**The Role and Importance of Dental Cleaning**
Dental cleaning is not merely about making your teeth look clean. It is a professional dental care procedure that uses ultrasonic scalers or other tools to remove plaque, tartar, and stains from the tooth surfaces. These substances, if accumulated over time at the gumline or between teeth, can affect aesthetics and potentially lead to gum inflammation, periodontal disease, and even affect the health of your teeth and jawbone.
**Why Consider Dental Cleaning Before Implants**
Implant procedures involve placing artificial roots into the gums, and its vital to ensure that the oral environment is clean and healthy. If tartar or plaque is present around the teeth, the gums can easily become inflamed post-surgery, potentially leading to implant failure. Dental cleaning removes the breeding ground for bacteria, reducing surgical risks, and allows dentists to thoroughly assess the condition of teeth and jawbone to devise the most suitable implant plan.
**Periodontal Health Check and Coordination**
After a dental cleaning, dentists typically check for gum inflammation, periodontal pocket depth, and evaluate the height and density of the jawbone. This information is critical for implants because implant success goes beyond just placing an "artificial root"; sufficient jawbone support is needed. If there is severe periodontal disease and significant bone loss, periodontal treatment or bone grafting may be required first to ensure a stable oral
environment.
**Coordination Between Hong Kong and Mainland Clinics**
Some choose to undergo dental cleaning and examination in Hong Kong before traveling to mainland China for implants; others go directly to mainland dental clinics for cleaning, examination, and surgery. Regardless of the chosen approach, its essential to discuss the complete process with the dentist, especially concerning gum disease, loose teeth, or insufficient jawbone. Dental implants are not emergency procedures; they require careful planning and assessment. Adequate preparation can significantly boost success rates.
**Post-Cleaning Precautions**
After a dental cleaning, the gums may experience slight swelling or bleeding, which is normal and should subside within a few days. During this time, it is important to maintain oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily and using mouthwash to reduce bacterial accumulation. Schedule the implant procedure only after the gums have healed for optimal results. Skipping the cleaning step to expedite surgery is not advisable as it increases infection risks.
**Cultivating Good Oral Habits**
Even if the dental implants in mainland China are successful, both artificial and natural teeth require regular cleaning and check-ups. Good oral habits are fundamental in protecting teeth and gums, including brushing twice daily, using dental floss, and getting a dental cleaning and examination every six months to a year to prevent periodontal disease recurrence and prolong the life of implants.
**Conclusion**
Having a dental cleaning before getting implants in mainland China is a necessary preparatory step rather than an unnecessary one. It not only cleans your teeth but also provides the dentist with a clearer understanding of your oral health, reducing surgical and recovery risks. Whether you complete the cleaning in Hong Kong or mainland China, follow the principle of "ensuring a healthy oral environment before implanting." This approach guarantees a worthy investment while promoting healthier and longer-lasting teeth and smiles.
