Dental / Teeth Cleaning Procedure

Our dental cleaning in HK is performed personally by Dr. Tong. Before each teeth cleaning procedure is done, we always make sure to have a proper examination inside and outside of your mouth to make sure nothing is missed. We will mainly be checking for gum health and may need x-rays to ensure that all bacteria and calculus has been removed during dental cleaning.

Why is Regular Dental Cleaning So Important?

Maintaining a good oral health routine is essential to preventing all kinds of health issues. Depending on your general health, these oral health issues can be worsened by certain conditions or diseases which make you more prone to gum disease or tooth decay. 

The main reason to go for a routine general check, and have professional dental cleaning in HK, is because there are many areas within the mouth that are hard to reach and may be missed while brushing or flossing at home. Professional teeth cleaning in Hong Kong allows specialists to use tools to remove any food debris as well as check the surface of each tooth. 

What to do Before Professional Teeth Cleaning in Hong Kong

Panicking right before a check-up is very common, which is why we have devised a little step-by-step for you to follow before your next check-up and teeth cleaning procedure:
  • Keeping your teeth clean and free of food debris may help facilitate a quicker examination process without the need to remove them before checking each surface.

  • We recommend not doing so before a teeth cleaning procedure because it can worsen sensitivity.
  • Instead, it is better to use desensitising toothpaste (e.g. Sensodyne) before dental cleaning so that when we go in to clean around the gums (which could potentially be sensitive), you don’t feel as much discomfort during the process.
  • This would be important because we want to check that you are not only cleaning your teeth properly but also your dentures and appliances. 
  • In addition to teeth cleaning, these appliances must be cleaned properly every day and night to prevent plaque and bacteria from sticking to their surfaces and causing any diseases.
  • Use polident capsules 1/day to clean the appliance or denture for at least 3 minutes or overnight.

What to do After Dental Cleaning in HK

To make sure you benefit the most after your dental cleaning HK appointment, we recommend the following:

  • Wait 30 minutes after the dental cleaning before you eat or drink anything. This is because we want to keep the topical fluoride treatment we used to stay on your teeth as long as possible before disrupting it.
  • Avoid eating or drinking hot foods after a tooth cleaning. If you are very thirsty, you may take small sips of water or drink through a straw.
  • After a teeth cleaning, apply desensitizing toothpaste around areas that are sore or causing sensitivity, you may leave it overnight and spit it out the next morning.

Steps in the Teeth Cleaning Procedure

Dental cleaning in HK is also commonly known as scaling and polishing, or root planing.

Step 1: Discussion with Specialist


We will have a general discussion with the patient before teeth cleaning commences to find out more about your health and medications that you are on. Medical conditions such as diabetes, pregnancy or smoking have a significant effect on the gums which may help to decide what to expect within the mouth before doing an examination and dental cleaning in HK.

Step 2: Periodontal Charting


If necessary, we may perform a periodontal charting before the dental cleaning procedure so that we can have a baseline measurement of how deep the gum sockets are at each tooth. This process is often described by patients as being a slight pinch in the gums and can be slightly uncomfortable. You may hear our specialist shout out several numbers to the nurse and these would be the measurements being recorded down.

For reference, a measurement of 1-2 mm is healthy (normal dental cleaning), 3-4 mm is gingivitis (normal dental cleaning needed), 5mm or above is periodontal disease (deep teeth cleaning needed). Generally speaking, any measurements above 5 mm would require a deep teeth cleaning in Hong Kong, and will have to be reviewed every 3 months until health is achieved.

Step 3: Scaling


These are non-surgical therapy treatments that can be performed to manage gum disease. Often teeth cleaning involves cleaning along or in between the gum and teeth, to clear out the harmful bacteria hiding/trapped in the gum pocket, and also removes debris and calculus/tartar buildups.

Sometimes, in cases where gum disease is very advanced, gum pockets are quite deep and/or significant gum inflammation is present, local anaesthesia may be required to adequately perform the teeth cleaning therapy to minimise discomfort. Usually, dental cleaning in HK is fast and easy but deeper pockets may need more time to complete.

We also provide teeth cleaning Hong Kong services using traditional equipment including ultrasonic scalers and hand instruments. These have been around for decades and have proven to be effective in managing gum disease and gum health maintenance.

Step 4: Polishing


We are one of the few surgeries in Hong Kong to offer dental cleaning using EMS Airflow therapy. This latest advancement enables us to provide more comfortable and minimally invasive therapy to remove bacteria and especially dark stains on the teeth that require professional teeth cleaning to be removed properly.

Another option for polishing after teeth cleaning (especially for children) is a rubber cup and prophy paste. Each tooth will be smoothened, and plaque will be removed.

Step 5: Flossing


After all the bacteria and calculus has been removed within the gum pockets, the dental cleaning HK procedure is ended with flossing in between the teeth with floss or an interproximal brush. After teeth cleaning, we will also demonstrate how to use these so that you can also floss on a daily basis at home.

Some Instructions for General Care & Dental Cleaning at Home

In addition to regular teeth cleaning Hong Kong appointments, below are a few tips we recommend for you while at home:

  • Tooth brushing for 2 minutes with fluoridated toothpaste twice daily. Ideally in the morning and right before sleeping.
  • Floss in between teeth 2 times a day, or whenever you find convenient.
  • Option to use mouth rinse once or twice a week with non-alcoholic mouth rinse is a good addition to regular teeth cleaning practices at home
  • Replace your toothbrush every 3 months to maximise its dental cleaning effectiveness. 
  • Rinse your mouth with water after snacking or drinking coffee, tea or wine to prevent tooth staining.
  • Avoid eating sugary foods or drinks in general, be aware of hidden sugars in some foods. 

Regular vs. Deep Teeth Cleaning in Hong Kong

When you come in for a general check-up and dental cleaning in HK, our specialist will perform a teeth cleaning that focuses more along the gum line and polish the teeth to remove any stains from the outer surfaces. But if our specialist finds that a regular teeth cleaning in Hong Kong is not enough to clean away all the calculus and tartar that has accumulated underneath the gum, then a deep dental cleaning procedure would be necessary. So, what’s the difference between a normal dental cleaning and a deep teeth cleaning?

Well, deep teeth cleaning is when we go underneath the gums to reach the roots of the teeth and remove such calculus/tartar from its surface with special hand instruments. It is very important to remove all the calculus during dental cleaning in HK because any that is left behind can harbour bacteria and cause continuation of the disease process. 

Deep dental cleaning requires multiple visits, and the number of sessions required depend on a few factors, namely, the amount of calculus needing to be removed, your tolerance to the dental cleaning process, your medical conditions (if any), the amount of sensitivity experienced, and how well you maintain oral hygiene at home during recovery time. 

Reviews from Our Dental Cleaning HK Patients

“I was referred to Dr. Tong by a friend as my previous practice had relocated. I wanted to share my positive experiences with everyone which is why I am leaving this review. I am usually a very nervous patient but I was very relaxed upon arriving at their surgery and they were very fast with the examination and dental cleaning process.
The price of dental cleaning in HK and check-up is reasonable and after I told Dr. Tong about my sensitivity issues, Dr Tong immediately recommended ways to help the tooth. I could sense that Dr. Tong is very professional and even though I have sensitive teeth during dental cleaning in my previous surgery, Dr. Tong made sure that I didn’t have the same experience here. Another great thing about Dr. Tong and his receptionist is that they never recommend anything extra or “add-ons” unless it is truly required. Can sense that they are very truthful and really want to help their patients. Thank you everyone and I will come back for annual checks and dental cleaning in HK soon!”
“I have been a patient of Dr. Tong’s for almost 20 years now and have always found him to be the most professional and skillful specialist I have ever met. I had two decayed teeth that were treated by Dr. Tong and subsequently did my teeth cleaning as well to make sure that no more decay would form. Dr. Tong was very patient in explaining the process of decay to me and spent extra time going through all the steps on how to properly brush and floss with the interdental floss. Dr. Tong always only does necessary treatment and will not “sell” you on further treatment ever. One part that I am always nervous about is the high-pitched sound I hear during dental cleaning, but because it doesn’t hurt, I am ok with it now. I highly recommend Dr. Tong if you need to get a checkup or dental cleaning in HK.”
“Superb service and a great dental cleaning HK surgery. I was able to make a very last-minute teeth cleaning Hong Kong appointment with them for my son and we were greeted with smiles and kindness. I went in for a check-up and teeth cleaning in Hong Kong and what can I say! The office is clean, simple and easy to find. All staff, especially their receptionist, was professional and polite. I recommend them to my family and friends all the time now.”
“If anyone is looking for good teeth cleaning in Hong Kong, I would highly recommend Dr. Tong. He does a good job with dental cleaning and helps to ease my anxiety to make my visit more pleasant. I was actually first introduced to the electric toothbrush by Dr. Tong and I can’t believe what a change it would make for me!! My teeth are looking so much healthier and whiter now and I also found out that there is an application that can be downloaded for dental cleaning in HK. I use the app everyday now and it also reminds me when it is time to brush my teeth or floss. The greatest experience I have ever had by far.”
“For anyone looking to get dental cleaning in HK, I highly recommend seeing Dr. Tong. I had lost most of my teeth from periodontal disease previously and have very, very sensitive teeth due to much of the bone loss. Dr. Tong was very careful whilst doing my teeth cleaning and recommended that I use a desensitising toothpaste at home in between our dental cleaning HK appointments. The price you pay for the appointment includes Dr. Tong examining your teeth with x-rays and also dental cleaning in HK by himself. Dr. Tong does everything hands-on which is why I am going to switch all my teeth cleaning appointments to him from now on!”
“Very satisfied with my recent teeth cleaning in Hong Kong with Dr David. He was thorough yet gentle, and I felt comfortable throughout my visit. He only does what is necessary and strives to achieve the best outcome. Thank you so much Dr Tong for your professional teeth cleaning in Hong Kong and kind care.”
“Thank you Dr David for helping me get a good teeth cleaning in Hong Kong. Initially I was worried as I usually have sensitive gums, but I realised it was uncalled for. He was so gentle, and I am so happy with the teeth cleaning procedure, because my teeth and gums feel so good now! I’d recommend finding this place for dental cleaning in HK.”
“Dr Tong has been my long-time family oral specialist, always taking care of my children and my health. We have visited him for teeth cleaning in Hong Kong regularly over the past few years and highly recommend his services.”
“Before I migrated away from the United States, teeth cleaning in Hong Kong always made me feel nervous and I didn’t like the sounds and sensations. But ever since I found Dr Tong, I have been very pleased with his care and patience which has helped me overcome my fear.”
“It has been a couple years since I last went for a teeth cleaning procedure and was worried about the process since I have quite a bit of build-up. I would like to commend Dr Tong’s professionalism and excellent skills after my recent teeth cleaning in Hong Kong.”
“Dr David Tong was recommended by a close friend, and I visited him for dental cleaning in HK recently. It was my first time experiencing the EMS Airflow machine and I must say it was one of the most comfortable gum and teeth cleaning experiences. The water was not cold and had a pleasant taste. Very interesting experience and I would revisit it!”
“I was told that I had gum disease for many years by another specialist but didn’t really know what it was because they always jump straight to the dental cleaning once they have a quick look. But I really appreciated Dr Tong’s simple yet detailed explanation regarding my gum condition during the initial consultation. I now realise the importance of gum health and regular teeth cleaning in Hong Kong, and I am very happy with the ongoing care of his treatment.”
“Had a teeth cleaning recently by Dr David as I was having some bleeding gums when brushing. He took the time to understand my concerns and needs and I felt like I was genuinely cared for. I sincerely send my compliments to him and highly rate this practice!”
“Was seen promptly by Dr Tong for my teeth cleaning in Hong Kong, very efficient and professional. Equipment used looked new, and I got to try the new machine. Clean environment and pleasant smell. Assistants and front desk staff were friendly too. I felt relaxed and well taken care of, thank you Dr Tong.”

Learn More About the Teeth / Dental Cleaning Procedure - FAQs:

1. What is gum disease or periodontal disease?

In our mouth, there is and will always have bacteria present. In a healthy oral environment, the conditions favour a balance between good and bad bacteria. However, when this balance is tipped towards the side of having more bad harmful bacteria, gum disease will initiate. These harmful bacteria often sit and hide within the gum pocket, which is naturally present between the gum and tooth.

Gum disease has two main types, gingivitis (early-stage gum disease/inflammation) or periodontitis (more advanced gum disease). This occurs when the supporting tissues around your teeth get infected, most commonly due to plaque and calculus/tartar build-up. Common symptoms are bleeding gums, sore and swollen gums, tenderness when chewing.

Usually in gingivitis, special attention and care to your gum health through regular specialist visits, undergoing professional teeth cleaning procedures, and consistent good daily oral hygiene practices via tooth brushing and flossing/interdental cleaning, can help to reduce gum inflammation and improve your gum condition. Gingivitis is a reversible gum disease condition.

As gum disease progresses, the gum pockets become deeper, trapping more plaque bacteria, and making it harder for you to keep clean as the toothbrush bristles are unable to reach these deep gum pockets. In periodontitis, harmful bacteria types prevail in the deep gum pockets, and if left alone without proper dental cleaning treatment, this advanced gum infection can destroy your gums and jawbone that supports the teeth’s stability, which can eventually lead to teeth movement, teeth loosening/mobility, and you might lose the tooth eventually.

By coming in for routine dental cleaning and check-ups, we can pick up the early signs of gingivitis and periodontitis and guide you to better oral health. 

Plaque is the soft, sticky, white film of bacteria that can be found on your teeth, and quite commonly along the gum line. This bacteria layer forms daily and requires consistent regular disruption via daily home teeth cleaning methods such as proper tooth brushing and flossing/interdental cleaning techniques. If plaque is left undisrupted, it can irritate the gums, leading to gum inflammation and disease.

Over time, the undisrupted plaque will harden to form calculus, also known as tartar, which sticks to the tooth firmly. Initially it will appear tooth-coloured or creamy-yellow but can eventually become stained and appear brown or greyish. Calculus can also form under the gumline, within the gum pockets. Calculus will require professional teeth cleaning to remove. If calculus is not removed, its rough surface will trap more harmful plaque bacteria, which further aggravates the gum disease, resulting in gum disease progression and worsening.

Normally, both plaque and calculus will be removed during dental cleaning visits.

Dental cleaning is important in maintaining the gum and bone support around your teeth. Our gums, jawbone and supporting structures help to provide stability in our teeth. They are resilient but without proper regular professional monitoring and teeth cleaning, gum disease may develop and worsen.

Depending on your gum disease type, we will tailor a specific gum maintenance therapy program involving dental cleaning procedures suitable for your needs. Teeth cleaning in Hong Kong is most recommended to be every 6 months because gum disease bacteria usually re-establish within this timeframe after your previous treatment.

For more advanced gum disease conditions (eg: severe periodontitis), more frequent dental cleaning visits will be required to reduce the harmful bacteria load to minimise the risk of the destructive gum disease process from restarting again.

During our teeth cleaning consultation, we will do a thorough checkup to assess your gum health status. We will also explain in greater detail your condition to help you better understand your gum health needs, and tailor a suitable dental cleaning maintenance program for you.

Occasionally, after dental cleaning HK procedures, some patients may feel some sensitivity, usually more towards cold food/drinks. This occurs because the calculus/tartar and debris deposits that have built up around the teeth act as a “barrier” between the teeth and the oral environment. Dental cleaning is a minimally invasive procedure, and we use gentle teeth cleaning techniques to specifically target removal of calculus/tartar and debris deposits. Hence, after the harmful deposits are removed to help improve the gum health following dental cleaning therapy, the teeth may feel more sensitive than normal, which usually resolves itself after a few days. In rare instances, some may require the use of desensitising fluoride toothpastes (eg: Sensodyne, Colgate Sensitive etc.) to help relieve tooth sensitivity following teeth cleaning in Hong Kong.

If you notice a tendency to have teeth sensitivity before/during/following dental cleaning in HK, please let us know and we can use the EMS Airflow system for a more comfortable and pleasant gum therapy experience and apply some fluoride at the end of the dental cleaning session to help reduce the risk of sensitivity.

 

When comparing these two options for teeth cleaning in Hong Kong, we recommend using an electric toothbrush. This is because electric toothbrushes rotate/oscillate and rely less on teeth cleaning techniques to remove plaque. Another good feature an electric toothbrush offers over a manual one for teeth cleaning in Hong Kong, is that it also notifies you when you are brushing too hard. To make sure you are brushing for the full 2 minutes, there is also a built-in timer for electric toothbrushes for daily dental cleaning in HK and is therefore more reliable to make sure that the amount of time to clean your teeth is enough.