Is anesthesia necessary for teeth cleaning (dental scaling) in Mainland China

　　Do you need anesthesia for teeth cleaning in mainland China?

　　In recent years, many Hong Kong residents have gone north for dental care, and one of the most popular services is teeth cleaning (ultrasonic scaling and polishing). A common question at booking is: Do you need anesthesia for a cleaning? The real answer depends on what procedure you’re having, your personal pain tolerance, and the dentist’s assessment.

　　For most people, routine ultrasonic scaling and polishing does not require injected anesthesia. When the ultrasonic tip breaks up tartar (calculus), you may feel slight soreness and see a bit of gum bleeding—especially if there’s heavy buildup, gum inflammation, or naturally sensitive teeth—but most patients tolerate it well. Some clinics use topical numbing gel or spray to reduce sensitivity. These are not injections, work gently, act quickly within minutes, and wear off fast.

　　When might anesthesia be needed? If your periodontal condition is poor and you need deep cleaning—such as scaling and root planing to remove tartar and debris below the gumline—the area is deeper, the session is longer, and discomfort can be greater. In that case a dentist may recommend a local anesthetic injection. Local anesthesia effectively reduces pain but can leave one side of your mouth numb for a while. Be careful when eating to avoid biting your lips or cheek. Unless you’re having deep periodontal therapy, routine cleanings typically don’t require injections.

　　Worried about being “upsold” anesthesia up north? It’s true that some mainland clinics proactively offer numbing to improve comfort, including topical agents and sometimes injections. You can and should ask:

　　- Are we doing a routine scaling and polishing, or a periodontal deep cleaning (scaling and root planing)?

　　- Why is anesthesia needed? Are there non-injection options (topical gel or spray)?

　　- What drug and dose will be used? Will it affect my ability to work or study afterward?

　　- Have you reviewed my allergy history, current medications, and overall health?

　　What to look for when choosing a clinic:

　　- Proper licensing and clear dentist credentials; ability to provide exam findings and a written treatment explanation

　　- Strong sterilization protocols (single-use items, barrier sleeves on handpieces, glove changes, etc.)

　　- Willingness to examine first—periodontal probing and X‑rays

　　if needed—before proposing a plan

　　- Clear communication that respects your choices about anesthesia and treatment pace

　　Tips before your appointment:

　　- Proactively disclose drug allergies, heart conditions, diabetes, pregnancy, and whether you take blood thinners

　　- Brush and floss thoroughly the night before to reduce surface plaque on the calculus

　　- Avoid arriving with an empty stomach; limit caffeine and alcohol that day; stay hydrated and well-rested

　　What happens during a cleaning: The dentist uses an ultrasonic scaler to remove calculus along the gumline tooth by tooth, then polishes with paste to lift surface stains. Minor bleeding is normal. If it feels too sharp or intense, say so—your dentist can lower the power, pause, or add topical numbing. Don’t tough it out; speak up.

　　Aftercare:

　　- Avoid very spicy or very cold foods that day to let your gums settle

　　- Rinse gently with warm salt water to reduce inflammation and odour

　　- For 2–3 days, keep using a soft toothbrush, floss, and interdental brushes to clear debris

　　- Use a desensitizing toothpaste if your teeth feel sensitive, as directed

　　- If bleeding continues, gums swell, or pain/halitosis suddenly worsens, arrange a review promptly

　　How often should you get a cleaning? Generally every 6–12 months. If you have periodontal issues, smoke, or build tartar quickly, consider every 3–6 months. Combine this with proper brushing technique, floss, and interdental brushes for the best results.

　　Common myths, explained:

　　- “Cleanings make teeth loose.” Removing tartar reveals the true state of your gums and bone. If periodontal disease is present, teeth may feel looser after calculus is gone. The cleaning didn’t cause looseness—the disease needs further treatment.

　　- “You must get anesthesia for a cleaning in mainland China.” Not true. Anesthesia should be based on your gum health, pain tolerance, and safety assessment. Routine ultrasonic scaling rarely requires injections.

　　Bottom line: Whether you need anesthesia for a teeth cleaning up north depends on whether it’s a routine scaling or a periodontal deep cleaning. Communicate clearly beforehand and understand your own condition. Prioritize safety and transparency—you have the right to choose and to refuse unnecessary anesthesia. With good daily oral care and regular cleanings, you’ll maintain oral health more easily and comfortably.