Teeth Cleaning in Mainland China: Frequently Asked Questions for Hong Kong Residents In recent years, many people from Hong Kong have been heading to Mainland China for professional teeth cleaning. It’s convenient, there are plenty of clinic options, and service standards are increasingly mature. If it’s your first time, you’ll likely have questions. Here are practical, down-to-earth answers to help you plan with confidence. FAQ 1: What is the typical process for teeth cleaning in the Mainland? - You’ll register and complete a brief medical history first. - A comprehensive oral exam follows, including gum health assessment and periodontal probing to measure pocket depths. Dental X-rays may be taken if needed. - The cleaning usually involves ultrasonic scaling to remove tartar (calculus), followed by air polishing for stain removal and smoothness. You’ll also get instructions for at‑home care. - Some clinics finish with a fluoride treatment to help prevent cavities. - Total time varies by your oral condition but is generally not long. FAQ 2: Does teeth cleaning hurt? Is bleeding normal? - Discomfort depends on how much tartar you have, whether your gums are inflamed, and your sensitivity level. - Mild gum bleeding is common because gums start healing after tartar is removed. - Some clinics use topical anesthesia to reduce sensitivity in certain areas. - Tell your dentist in advance if you’ve had persistent tooth sensitivity, gum swelling/pain, or any recent oral surgery. FAQ 3: How do I choose a reliable dental clinic in Mainland China? - Check the dentist’s qualifications and that the clinic is properly licensed. - Look for proper sterilization: individually sealed instrument packs, clean treatment rooms, and clear infection-control practices. - A good clinic will examine first and then recommend treatments, with transparent medical records. - Trust real reviews and word of mouth over advertisements. - Before crossing the border, book online, confirm language support (Mandarin/Cantonese/English), and ask whether you can get copies of imaging and how follow-up will be arranged. FAQ 4: How often should I get my teeth cleaned? - Most people do well with a cleaning every 6–12 months. - If you have periodontal disease, smoke regularly, wear braces, or build tartar easily, you may need more frequent visits. - Teeth cleaning is generally safe during pregnancy, but non-essential X-rays are usually avoided. - If you have heart disease, diabetes, or take blood thinners, disclose your medical history and medications beforehand. FAQ 5: How is it different from getting a cleaning in Hong Kong? - The overall process is very similar. - Many Mainland clinics use ultrasonic scaling plus air polishing and place emphasis on keeping imaging records. - In Shenzhen and Guangzhou, Mandarin is standard and many staff can speak Cantonese; confirm language support in advance. - Electronic payments (e.g., Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted, and you can usually obtain your records in digital form for future follow-up. FAQ 6: What should I prepare before the trip? - Bring your H ome Return Permit (回鄉證) and essential ID documents. - Enable roaming on your phone or get a Mainland data SIM, and plan your route to the clinic. - Bring any previous dental X-rays or reports if available. - On the day, avoid alcohol. Brush and floss after meals so the dentist can assess clean tooth surfaces. - Inform the clinic if you have allergies or sensitivities to medications or anesthesia. FAQ 7: How do I care for my teeth after a cleaning? - For the first 1–2 days, avoid very spicy, very hot, or very cold foods, and limit smoking and alcohol. - Rinse gently with warm salt water to help gums recover. - Use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Keep up twice-daily brushing plus flossing or interdental brushes. - If you feel temporary sensitivity, use a desensitizing toothpaste. - If bleeding, swelling, pain, or bad breath persists, arrange a follow-up to check your gums. FAQ 8: What’s the difference between a deep cleaning and a regular cleaning? - “Deep cleaning” typically refers to periodontal scaling and root planing, which targets tartar and biofilm below the gumline. - It’s often done by quadrant and may require local anesthesia. Temporary sensitivity or gum tightness can occur afterward. - Not everyone needs it. Dentists recommend it based on pocket depths, tooth mobility, and bone levels on X-rays. - Periodontal maintenance at set intervals is essential afterward to reduce relapse. FAQ 9: Will cleaning make my gaps bigger? - It may feel that way because removing tartar and reducing swollen gums reveals the true spaces. Your tooth positions haven’t changed. - Consistent cleaning and healthy gums help stabilize teeth long term. - If you already have gum recession or advanced periodontal disease, your dentist may recommend specific interdental tools and a tailored care plan. FAQ 10: Are cross-border safety and sterilization standards trustworthy? - Reputable clinics follow strict protocols: steam sterilization (autoclave), single-use disposables, fresh gloves and masks per patient, and sealed instrument packs opened chairside. - Observe details on-site and ask questions if unsure. - Dental X-rays involve a very low dose. Thyroid collars and abdominal shielding are used when appropriate. - If you’re uncertain, discuss options with your dentist—never feel pressured. Summary Going to Mainland China for teeth cleaning is a viable option. The keys are choosing a reputable clinic, communicating your health needs clearly, and keeping up with regular periodontal maintenance. Daily brushing and flossing are the foundation of oral health—professional cleaning is an important part of ongoing care, not a substitute. Plan your trip sensibly, put your health first, and your smile will be all the more secure. 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