Do you have to book a dental cleaning appointment under your real name in mainland China

　　Is real-name booking required to get a teeth cleaning in Mainland China? In short: not always, but most clinics and platforms now prefer it—especially public hospital dental departments and large chains. Requirements vary by public vs. private provider, whether you book online or by phone, and whether it’s your first visit.

　　Why more places require real-name booking

　　- Medical compliance: Mainland medical institutions need to create patient records and verify identity to ensure safe prescribing, treatment tracking, and compliance.

　　- System integration: Booking via WeChat, mini programs, or apps usually requires binding your real name, ID number, and mobile phone.

　　- Receipts and follow-up: Issuing official receipts or electronic fapiao and arranging follow-up or referrals is more reliable with verified details.

　　How different booking scenarios work

　　- Public hospital dental departments: Real-name booking is basically required. For first-time visits, you’ll typically need Home Return Permit or passport details to open a file. Slots are limited, and walk-ins without a reservation are very likely to be turned away.

　　- Private dental chains: Most online bookings are real-name, and your ID will be checked on arrival. The upside is clearer time slots and streamlined processes.

　　- Independent/community clinics: Some accept phone or WeChat name-only reservations, then complete real-name paperwork on site. Weekend and holiday slots may be tight.

　　- Walk-in: On weekdays in the morning or early afternoon, you may still get same-day scaling. In peak seasons or on rainy days, queues are longer and you may need to reschedule.

　　No Mainland mobile number? Here’s what to do

　　- Many platforms now support Hong Kong numbers. Complete WeChat real-name verification and SMS code verification. If the system doesn’t accept it, call the clinic directly or visit and have the front desk assist with registration.

　　- A friend can book on your behalf, but you’ll still need to present your ID in person for verification and sign the consent forms.

　　What to prepare before booking and on the day

　　- Identification: Home Return Permit or passport to set up your patient record.

　　- Mobile phone: Able to receive SMS. It’s best to have WeChat installed and real-name verified.

　　- Previous dental info: Bring any old X-rays or periodontal treatment records if available. Inform the clinic in advance abo

　　ut any drug allergies.

　　- Payment methods: Electronic payment is standard in the Mainland; most Hong Kong e-wallets work. Ask the clinic if other payment options are available if needed.

　　- Language: In Shenzhen, Zhuhai and nearby cities, Cantonese is usually fine. Don’t worry if you’re not used to speaking Mandarin.

　　Typical same-day cleaning process

　　Front desk verifies your details → complete a health declaration → dentist examines periodontal condition → ultrasonic scaling based on tartar and gum status → polishing or staged treatment if needed (explained in advance) → receive official receipt/electronic fapiao → arrange follow-up. If the dentist finds significant gum inflammation, they may recommend addressing periodontal issues first. You might not finish everything in one visit; this is a clinical decision, so ask clearly about the plan and risks on site.

　　After returning to Hong Kong

　　- Mild bleeding or sensitivity is common and should improve shortly. If discomfort persists beyond two or three days, contact the clinic for follow-up.

　　- For insurance claims, make sure your official receipt/electronic fapiao has the correct payer name and itemized details.

　　- Keep up daily brushing and interdental cleaning, and follow your dentist’s recommended check-up interval.

　　Quick FAQs

　　- Do you only get a slot with real-name booking? Not strictly, but real-name bookings usually have higher success rates and a smoother experience.

　　- Can I use a nickname? Not recommended; it can affect your medical record, invoices, and future follow-up.

　　- What about minors? Most clinics require a guardian to accompany and provide their identification.

　　- Do I need a health code to cross the border? Border crossings are normal at present with no extra health code requirements, but watch for peak times at the checkpoints.

　　Summary

　　You don’t always need real-name booking for teeth cleaning in Mainland China, but it has become the norm to ensure proper record setup, secure time slots, and official receipts. If you want same-day scaling, you can try walking in, but there’s a chance you’ll wait longer or be turned away. The most reliable approach is to check the clinic’s requirements before you go, bring your ID and contact details, and complete verification as instructed on arrival. That way, you can confidently plan and complete your cross-border dental cleaning in one smooth trip.