Dentist’s guide: how to get your teeth cleaned in Mainland China without the pitfalls More and more Hong Kong residents go north for dental cleanings because it’s convenient and scheduling is flexible. But dentistry is a professional service. If you want to save time without regrets, here are practical tips from a dentist’s perspective so you can keep your smile clean with confidence. Do your homework before you go Don’t rely on a few pretty social posts. Read detailed reviews and, ideally, ask friends who’ve been there. Verify that the clinic has valid licenses, check where the dentist trained and their credentials, and whether they provide official receipts and medical records. Before you book, call or message to confirm what the cleaning includes: oral exam, periodontal assessment, polishing, fluoride varnish, and follow-up advice. What to look for on arrival: environment and sterilization Pay attention to infection control. Single-use items—gloves, masks, cups, suction tips—should be opened in front of you. Metal instruments should come in sealed pouches and be opened chairside. The dental chair and surfaces must be disinfected between patients. Handpieces and their heads should be properly sterilized and handled. These details are the basics of infection control; when you see them taken seriously, you can feel safer sitting down for treatment. Before starting: proper assessment matters A qualified dentist will take your medical history first—heart conditions, diabetes, drug allergies, pregnancy—because these affect the cleaning approach and whether extra precautions are needed. They’ll then perform a periodontal exam to check gum health, calculus buildup, and any pockets. As for X‑rays, a full mouth series isn’t always necessary; bitewings are often sufficient to assess interproximal areas and bone levels. X‑rays should be taken only when needed, with the purpose and risks explained. If you’re pushed into extensive imaging without assessment, ask for the rationale. Technique: gentle, effective scaling and polishing Most cleanings use ultrasonic scaling to remove calculus, combined with hand scaling and polishing. The technique should be gentle yet effective—the ultrasonic tip shouldn’t linger too long on one spot to avoid sensitivity. Light gum bleeding during cleaning is common, especially if you have periodontitis; but if pain becomes intolerable, ask to pause, adjust the force, or split treatment into two sessions. Polishing smooths the tooth surface to reduce stain adherence, and a fluoride application strengthens enamel—these are part of a complete cleaning. Beware hard sells and unnecessary add‑ons Some places may claim “your calculus is very deep—do immediate deep cleaning” or suggest “whitening before cleaning.” In reality, deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) should be based on periodontal charting, X‑rays, and clinical findings, and it’s often done by quadrants rather than all at once. Clarify the purpose, steps, timeline, and risks of each treatment. Don’t let urgency pressure you. Packages can sound attractive—just make sure you know what’s included, so polishing, X‑rays, or follow‑up aren’t surprise extras. Communication is key You can ask the dentist to explain as they go: where calculus is most accumulated, which gaps need more attention, and how to position floss correctly at home. If you’re most comfortable in Cantonese, choose a clinic with a Cantonese‑speaking team to avoid misunderstandings. After treatment, request a summary or images; they’ll help with follow‑up in Hong Kong. Any prescriptions or mouthwash instructions should be written clearly with directions and precautions. Safety details worth noting - Clear price categories and service descriptions should be visible (even if they don’t list exact prices, they should state what’s included) to prevent last‑minute add‑ons. - You should be given a treatment consent form; risks must be explained before procedures. - Instrument swapping between patients or reusing polishing cups is unacceptable—speak up if you notice it. - If you have sensitivity or cardiovascular history, sessions should be shorter and gentler, and may need to be staged. Post‑cleaning care matters too Limit sticky, sugary snacks between meals. Brush correctly twice daily and use floss or interdental brushes. Avoid very hot or very cold foods for about two hours to let gums settle. If you feel temporary sensitivity, use desensitizing toothpaste; if bleeding persists or your mouth is painful, arrange a prompt review. Generally, cleanings are recommended every 6 to 12 months; if you have periodontitis, smoke, or accumulate calculus easily, your dentist may suggest more frequent visits. Cross‑border care: keep your records Keep receipts, treatment notes, and images—these protect you if issues arise and help your Hong Kong dentist ensure continuity of care. Above all, prioritize professionalism, safety, and transparency—don’t make decisions based solely on hearsay. Bottom line: Getting your teeth cleaned in Mainland China doesn’t have to end badly. Choose a credentialed, well‑regulated clinic that takes sterilization and communication seriously. Confirm what’s included, insist on assessment before treatment, and avoid hard‑sell add‑ons. Maintain daily oral hygiene and regular follow‑ups. With proper preparation, your teeth—and your trip—can be smooth and worry‑free.