Post-scaling care after getting your teeth cleaned across the border — what should you do? In recent years, many Hong Kong residents travel to Mainland China for teeth cleaning because it fits their schedule. Once you’re back, how do you take care of your mouth properly after scaling? Ultrasonic scaling removes tartar (calculus) and dental biofilm. The procedure is gentle, but your gums and tooth surfaces need a little time to recover. Follow this practical guide to reduce sensitivity, prevent buildup from returning, and keep your breath fresh and your smile bright. Why you might feel discomfort after scaling - Tooth sensitivity: Once tartar is removed and root surfaces are exposed again, cold or hot can trigger a “zinging” sensation. This typically improves over a few days. - Mild gum bleeding: Inflamed gums commonly bleed after accumulated deposits are cleared. - Tightness or slight swelling in the mouth: Especially in areas that received deep cleaning (scaling and root planing). This usually subsides within 1–3 days. Key care in the first 48 hours - Diet: Avoid very hot or very cold, spicy, acidic, hard or crunchy foods. Hold off for 48 hours on stain-prone items like coffee, strong tea, red wine, curry, and soy sauce. - Cleaning: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Brush gently with the Bass technique, at least twice daily for two minutes each time. Start flossing daily, but don’t snap the floss down. If spaces between teeth are wider, add an interdental brush as needed—choose a size that fits the gap. - Desensitizing and fluoride care: Use a desensitizing toothpaste containing potassium nitrate or fluoride. After brushing, let a small amount sit on sensitive spots for about 30 seconds. Keep using a fluoride toothpaste with 1450 ppm fluoride daily. - Rinsing: Lightly rinse with warm salt water to help reduce swelling. If your dentist advised a medical-grade chlorhexidine mouthwash, use as directed but typically not longer than 7–14 days to avoid staining and taste changes. - Other tips: Drink plenty of water. Avoid smoking and alcohol. For minor bleeding, press gently with clean gauze for 5–10 minutes. How to stay steady in the first week - Return to a full oral hygiene routine: Floss once daily and add an interdental brush where needed. If using an electric toothbrush, choose a gentle mode—don’t “scrub” the gums. - Slowly resume your normal diet, but avoid biting hard items with your front teeth (e.g., bones, nuts). - Use a straw for stain-prone drinks, and rinse with water right after to reduce pigment st icking to teeth. - If sensitivity persists, spot-apply desensitizing toothpaste and avoid rinsing immediately afterward. Extra care after deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) - If swelling/soreness is more noticeable, use intermittent cold compresses on the cheek outside the treated area during the first 24 hours (ice pack wrapped in cloth, 10 minutes at a time). Switch to warm compresses the next day to promote blood flow. - Follow your dentist’s instructions for medication. If antibiotics or painkillers were prescribed, take them on schedule—don’t change the dose on your own. - Cleaning and diet follow the same guidance above but be even gentler. Avoid irritating mouthwashes and don’t poke tooth gaps with toothpicks. When you should see a dentist - Severe pain lasting more than 48–72 hours and affecting eating or sleep - Bleeding that won’t stop, still dripping after over 30 minutes of pressure - Noticeable swelling of the cheek or gums, pus, or a sudden surge in bad breath - Fever, enlarged lymph nodes, or a tooth suddenly feeling loose If any of these occur, don’t wait—contact the original clinic or see a dentist in Hong Kong promptly. Cross-border follow-up tips - Ask for your treatment records from the clinic up north. If needed, keep copies/photos of X-rays and invoices so your Hong Kong dentist can understand your case. - Plan your recall visits: typically every 6–12 months after scaling. If you have periodontal issues, you may need more frequent maintenance (e.g., every 3–4 months). - If you feel unwell, you don’t have to wait until your next trip—following up with a dentist in Hong Kong is more practical. Daily maintenance is what truly matters - Consistent cleaning: Brush morning and night plus floss daily. If you can’t brush after meals, rinse with water. - Use the right tools: Soft-bristled toothbrush or a suitable electric brush head. Interdental brush sizes should match your gaps. Floss is safer than toothpicks. - Lifestyle habits: Quit smoking. Cut down on sugary and sticky snacks. After brushing before bed, avoid food or sugary drinks. - Regular professional cleaning: No matter where you get your teeth cleaned, ongoing periodontal care is the key. Summary: After cross-border scaling, most discomfort is temporary. With careful eating, gentle cleaning, and targeted desensitizing plus fluoride care over the first few days, you’ll typically bounce back quickly. Watch for warning signs, follow up appropriately, and build good habits—so one cleaning keeps your smile looking great for longer.