Northbound Dental Cleaning Guide: Process and Costs at a Glance In recent years, many Hong Kong residents have headed to Mainland China for teeth cleaning, thanks to wider clinic choices, flexible scheduling and easy trip planning. Wondering how to prepare, what the actual process looks like, and what affects the price? This one-stop guide gives you a clear picture before you go. Who should consider going north for a dental cleaning - People who still feel roughness after brushing, have tartar, or gums that bleed easily - Anyone wanting a routine oral exam plus scaling and polishing to assess gum health - Those traveling to the Mainland for work, family visits or shopping who want to add oral care to the itinerary Pre-departure preparation - Choosing a clinic: Check that it’s a licensed dental institution, review dentist credentials, sterilization protocols, price transparency and online reviews. Prioritize areas near border checkpoints or convenient transport for easy round trips. - Booking: Most clinics accept appointments via mobile apps, official websites or customer service. Book early and avoid busy weekends and public holidays. - Documents and payment: Bring your Home Return Permit. Enable common payment tools on your phone (e-wallets, UnionPay); some clinics also accept cash. - Insurance: Confirm whether your company or personal plan covers preventive dental services and ask about reimbursement rules in advance. - Personal conditions: If you’re pregnant, on long-term anticoagulants, or recently had dental surgery, inform the clinic first so the dentist can decide if same-day scaling is appropriate. Step-by-step dental cleaning process - Check-in: Verify your appointment and complete basic health info. The dentist will ask about your brushing habits and any sensitivity. - Oral examination: Assess the condition of your teeth and gums. X-rays may be recommended to evaluate periodontal health and hidden cavities. - Ultrasonic scaling: Ultrasonic vibration removes tartar and plaque. This may be followed by air polishing or buffing to reduce stains and smooth the tooth surface. - Oral hygiene guidance: The dentist will demonstrate proper brushing technique and how to use floss or interdental brushes, with key home-care tips. - Report and follow-up: If periodontal issues, cavities or gum recession are detected, the dentist will propose a treatment plan or recall schedule. - Time expectation: The visit from exam to cleaning is usually not long, but it depends on how much tartar is present and whether add-on procedures are needed. - Same-day reactions: Mild sensitivity or slight gum bleeding is common and should settle quickly. Avoid very hot, very cold or highly spicy foods for the rest of the day. How fees are determined (no specific prices quoted) - City and location: Pricing strategie s differ between clinics in prime business districts and neighborhood practices. - Equipment and inclusions: Whether the package includes X-rays, polishing, fluoride varnish; instrument brands and sterilization standards also make a difference. - Personal periodontal status: Heavy tartar or inflamed gums may require staged or deeper cleaning, changing the scope of treatment. - First-time vs. member: Some clinics offer new client, returning client or bundled packages with varying inclusions. - Payment method: Most support e-payments and UnionPay. Ask for a detailed itemized list upfront to avoid misunderstandings about add-ons. Transport and scheduling tips - Routes: High-speed rail and metro to border checkpoints are very convenient. Choose a clinic near the station to cut transfer time. - Timing: Book a morning slot so you can rest and monitor your gums afterwards. If you have other plans the same day, bring water and light snacks. - Diet: For a short period after scaling, avoid dark beverages (coffee, red wine, strong tea) and smoking to protect the polishing effect. Frequently asked questions - How is cleaning in the Mainland different from Hong Kong? Licensed clinics follow similar workflows, and ultrasonic scaling techniques are comparable. The biggest differences are the range of clinic types and supporting services. - Does scaling damage teeth? Performed properly, scaling targets tartar and plaque and does not grind away tooth structure. Sensitivity often occurs because tooth surfaces previously covered by tartar become exposed; it typically subsides soon. - How often should I get a cleaning? Generally every 6–12 months, depending on your oral condition. People with periodontal problems should follow their dentist’s recommended recall interval. - Do I need dental X-rays? It depends on the dentist’s assessment. If deeper periodontal issues or suspected hidden decay are present, X-rays help with accurate diagnosis. Practical tips - Before booking, confirm what’s included, whether ID is required, and if Cantonese-language service is available. - If you have braces, implants or bridges, inform the clinic in advance; cleaning methods will be adjusted. - Carry a few tissues or basic oral-care items for easy freshening up the same day. - On the night after cleaning, brush gently and use floss to clear debris between teeth. If discomfort persists, contact the clinic promptly. Summary For a smooth experience with dental cleaning in the Mainland, focus on thorough preparation, choosing a reputable clinic, and understanding the process and fee structure. With good planning, you’ll not only leave with cleaner teeth, but also build a sustainable, long-term oral-care routine. If you’re heading to Shenzhen or other cities, use this quick guide as your reference for a convenient, stress-free visit.