FAQ: Essential Tips for Teeth Cleaning in Mainland China (Greater Bay Area) In recent years, many Hong Kong residents have headed north for professional teeth cleaning. Scheduling is often easier and there are more choices, but getting dental care in another region still takes preparation. This practical FAQ walks you through everything step by step so your teeth cleaning in the Greater Bay Area is safer, cleaner, and more effective, with proper aftercare and follow-up. Q: How do I find a reliable dental clinic? A: Prioritize clinics with duly licensed, registered dentists, publicly available credentials, and transparent sterilization protocols. Read authentic reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations. Discuss the scope of treatment and risks in advance, and confirm whether the package includes an oral exam, ultrasonic dental scaling, polishing, air polishing (prophy jet/AirFlow), and fluoride varnish. Q: What should I prepare before I go? A: Bring your Mainland Travel Permit (Home Return Permit), a list of your current medications, known drug allergies, and any past dental reports or X‑rays if available. When booking, share your gum condition, whether you are pregnant, and if you are on long-term anticoagulants, so the dentist can assess appropriately. Q: What is the usual teeth cleaning process? A: Most visits start with an oral examination and X‑rays if needed. Then the hygienist or dentist will remove tartar and stains with ultrasonic scaling, followed by polishing, air polishing, and a fluoride treatment. If you have deeper periodontal issues, staged deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) may be recommended—avoid rushing too much treatment into a single visit. Q: What hygiene and sterilization standards should I look for? A: Check for proper high-temperature, high-pressure sterilization (autoclave), use of single‑use disposables, and fresh gloves and masks for each patient. Instruments should be individually packaged after sterilization. The treatment area should be visibly clean, with appropriate barrier protection and good ventilation/air filtration. Q: Does teeth cleaning hurt? Will there be bleeding? A: Mild discomfort or sensitivity is common. People with inflamed gums may experience more bleeding. After the appointment, gently rinse with warm saltwater and consider using a desensitizing toothpaste. If you have persistent severe pain, swelling, or heavy bleeding, contact the clinic promptly or arrange a follo w‑up in Hong Kong. Q: What should I avoid before my appointment? A: Get a good night’s sleep and avoid long travel on an empty stomach. If you have acute gum swelling, a fever, or recently had surgery, it’s best to reschedule. Choose off‑peak times to cross the border, allow enough buffer in your itinerary, and avoid rushing back to work or school. Q: How should I care for my teeth after cleaning? A: For 24–48 hours, avoid very hot or cold foods, overly spicy dishes, and hard/crunchy items. Minimize dark beverages to reduce staining. Maintain twice‑daily brushing and use floss or interdental brushes. Follow your dentist’s advice on fluoride or desensitizing products. Q: Any tips for language and communication? A: Most clinics can communicate in Mandarin, and many also speak Cantonese. Write down your key concerns in advance (e.g., stain removal, bleeding gums, bad breath). Request an itemized treatment list, consent forms, imaging files (X‑rays), and official receipts to support future follow‑up. Q: What should I know about insurance and payment? A: Confirm whether your insurance covers cross‑border dental care and ask for compliant receipts and a medical summary. Set up suitable payment methods (e.g., mobile payments, cards) and ensure mobile data connectivity to avoid last‑minute issues. Q: Is teeth cleaning suitable for pregnant women, children, and seniors? A: Pregnant patients should consult their doctor first. Children should be seen at clinics with pediatric dental experience. Seniors or those with chronic conditions should bring their medication list and recent blood pressure/glucose records. Plan a comfortable itinerary and avoid excessive travel. Q: How often should I get professional teeth cleaning? A: Generally every 6–12 months. Smokers, people with heavy tartar buildup, or those with periodontal concerns may need more frequent follow‑ups. Teeth cleaning isn’t a cure‑all—daily oral hygiene habits are the foundation. Q: What should I do if problems arise? A: Contact the original clinic for remote follow‑up first. If needed, arrange a review in Hong Kong. Keep all treatment documents and imaging; this helps both dentists coordinate care. Reminder: When going north for teeth cleaning, consider your choice of clinic, hygiene standards, communication, scheduling, and aftercare. Prepare thoroughly, ask clear questions, and leave buffer time so you can enjoy cross‑border dental services with greater peace of mind.