Do I need to bring my dental X-rays when going to Mainland China for teeth cleaning

　　Do you need to bring dental X-rays when going to Mainland China for a teeth cleaning?

　　In recent years, many people from Hong Kong head north to Mainland China for teeth cleaning and oral care. A common question before booking is: should you bring the dental X-rays taken in Hong Kong? In short, routine cleanings don’t always require X-rays. However, if you have recent, clear images, bringing or sending them in advance usually makes things smoother and helps the dentist assess your teeth and gums more comprehensively.

　　Do cleanings require dental X-rays?

　　- A standard ultrasonic teeth cleaning (scaling to remove tartar/calculus and polishing) doesn’t automatically require X-rays. That said, many clinics recommend a basic exam with X-rays for first-time patients to check for hidden cavities between teeth, tartar under the gums, bone levels, and wisdom tooth positioning.

　　- If you have gum disease (periodontal disease), frequent gum bleeding, bad breath, or loose teeth, X-rays are especially helpful. They show alveolar bone loss and help determine whether you need deep cleaning (scaling and root planing, and in some cases flap surgery) and follow-up care.

　　What are the common practices in Mainland clinics?

　　- Many Mainland dental centers suggest taking new X-rays at your first visit so they have records in their own system for ongoing care.

　　- If you took good-quality X-rays in Hong Kong within the last 6–12 months and share them beforehand, some clinics will accept them and may not retake. However, due to equipment and angle standards, they might still recommend supplementary images.

　　When is it worth bringing X-rays?

　　- Bitewing radiographs from the past 6–12 months (to check interproximal cavities, tartar height, and bone levels)

　　- A history of periodontal disease, frequent gum swelling/bleeding, or if you plan to have deep cleaning

　　- Recurrent wisdom tooth inflammation and you want an assessment at the same visit

　　- Previous root canal treatment, crowns/bridges, or dental implants that the dentist should review

　　When can you skip bringing them?

　　- You’re only going for a routine cleaning and have no symptoms

　　- Your last films are outdated (for example, 2–3 years old) — most clinics will retake on site

　　- You’re pregnant without acute issues — dentists usually start with

　　a visual exam and cleaning and avoid unnecessary X-rays (be sure to disclose pregnancy in advance)

　　Which types of dental X-rays are useful?

　　- Bitewing X-rays: Best for detecting cavities between back teeth, assessing tartar and bone height; most common for cleaning/caries assessment

　　- Panoramic radiograph (OPG): A full-mouth overview for wisdom teeth and jaw status

　　- Periapical X-ray: Focused view for deep issues on a single tooth

　　- CBCT: 3D scan primarily for implants and surgical planning; not needed for routine cleanings

　　How to bring or send your X-rays

　　- Ask your Hong Kong dentist for digital files (commonly DICOM/JPEG) along with the report, with your name and date clearly shown

　　- Before booking, WhatsApp or email the files to the Mainland clinic and confirm what file formats and resolution they accept

　　- Bring a USB drive or a cloud link as backup. Physical films can crease or fade; airport or border security is usually fine, but digital files are more reliable

　　Radiation safety essentials

　　- Modern digital dental X-rays use low radiation doses and are considered safe for routine care. You can request a lead apron and a thyroid collar during imaging

　　- If you are pregnant or planning pregnancy, non-urgent X-rays are typically postponed. Always inform the dental team beforehand

　　What other information should you bring?

　　- Medical history such as allergies, long-term medications (especially anticoagulants/blood thinners), prosthetic heart valves, or major surgeries

　　- If available, bring your periodontal charting and previous treatment records along with your X-rays

　　Practical tips

　　- Ask before booking: Are X-rays required? Will they accept outside films? Which types do they need?

　　- Check the clinic’s sterilization protocols, language support, and post-cleaning follow-up arrangements

　　- After a cleaning, minor bleeding and temporary sensitivity are common. Improve home care with floss, interdental brushes, and fluoride toothpaste

　　Bottom line: You don’t have to bring X-rays for a cross-border teeth cleaning, but if you have recent, clear images, sending them to the clinic in advance often saves time and may help you avoid repeat imaging. The most important thing is to communicate early and prepare your records so your cleaning visit is smooth, safe, and efficient.