Teeth Cleaning in Bangkok and Pattaya – What You Must Know Before Booking

Teeth Cleaning in Bangkok and Pattaya – What You Must Know Before Booking

Thinking about getting your teeth cleaned while you’re in Thailand? Good call. Bangkok and Pattaya are popular for dental care because clinics are easy to reach, appointments are fast to arrange, and prices are wallet-friendly compared to many Western countries. To help you book with confidence, here’s a straight-talking guide to teeth cleaning (scaling and polishing) in these two cities, with local tips and the kind of details you’ll want before you confirm.

What exactly is “teeth cleaning” in Thailand?

Most clinics list “Scaling & Polishing” as a standard teeth cleaning. This usually includes:

- Ultrasonic scaling to remove plaque and tartar

- Polishing to smooth your tooth surfaces

- A quick dental check-up by the dentist

If your gums are inflamed or you have deep tartar below the gumline, the dentist may recommend “deep cleaning” (periodontal scaling/root planing). This can be done per quadrant and may need local anesthesia.

Typical prices: Bangkok vs Pattaya

Prices can vary by clinic location, dentist seniority, and whether you’re in a hospital or a standalone clinic. As a general guide:

- Standard scaling & polishing: around 800–1,800 THB in most clinics. Premium hospital clinics may charge 1,800–2,800 THB.

- Deep cleaning (periodontal): often quoted per quadrant, roughly 1,800–3,500 THB per quadrant, depending on complexity.

Look out for “promotion” prices on clinic Facebook pages or LINE. Promotions might bundle a cleaning with a check-up or fluoride. If something sounds too cheap (e.g., under 500 THB), clarify whether it’s a full ultrasonic scaling or just a quick polish.

Where to book in Bangkok

Bangkok has a huge range of dental clinics—everything from small practices on Soi corners to international-standard hospitals. For convenience:

- Along the BTS Sukhumvit line (Asok, Phrom Phong, Thonglor, Ekkamai) and Silom/Sathorn (Sala Daeng, Chong Nonsi), you’ll find many reputable options.

- Malls and hospital campuses (Central World, EmQuartier, Samitivej, Bumrungrad) host clinics with longer hours and multi-language support.

- Access is easy via BTS/MRT, and most places accept walk-ins, but booking a slot is smarter on weekends and during high season.

Where to book in Pattaya

Pattaya has plenty of clinics along Beach Road, Second Road, and in areas like Central Pattaya and Jomtien. Many cater to tourists and expats, with English-speaking staff and flexible hours.

- Expect straightforward pricing and fast bookings.

- Larger clinics near Central Festival Pattaya or Terminal 21 Pattaya offer modern facilities and easy parking. Baht buses make getting around simple.

How to book like a local

- Message via LINE or Facebook: Many clinics respond faster here than by email.

- Ask for “scaling & polishing” and request the “normal price” and any current “promotion.”

- Check what’s included: Is fluoride included? Any exam fee? Are X-rays needed?

- Clarify payment: Cash and card are widely accepted; a small card fee may apply at some places.

- If you’re booking at a hospital, you may be

asked for passport details and to arrive a bit early for registration.

Best timing

- High season (Nov–Mar) can be busy, especially weekends.

- Songkran (mid-April) and New Year holidays may affect opening hours.

- Most clinics open late morning to evening (e.g., 10:00–20:00), with weekend slots available.

What to expect on the day

- A brief consultation: The dentist will check your gums, look for cavities, and decide if standard or deep cleaning is needed.

- Ultrasonic scaling: You’ll hear a buzz and feel vibrations; mild sensitivity is normal.

- Polishing: Leaves teeth smooth and shiny.

- Duration: About 30–45 minutes for standard cleaning. Deep cleaning can take longer or be split across visits.

- Comfort: If you have sensitive teeth or inflamed gums, ask for numbing gel or local anesthesia. No worries—dentists here are used to accommodating comfort requests.

Quality and safety

Thailand’s top clinics use modern sterilization (autoclave) and single-use tips. Many Bangkok hospital clinics have international-standard protocols. If you’re concerned, simply ask about sterilization methods—staff will gladly explain.

Insurance and payment

- Routine teeth cleaning is often not covered by travel insurance. Some expat medical plans may cover preventive care—check your policy.

- Pay in Thai baht; card is fine at most places. Hospital clinics may add a small facility fee.

Bangkok vs Pattaya: Which is better?

- Bangkok: More choice, easy BTS/MRT access, premium hospital options, slightly higher prices at top-tier centers.

- Pattaya: Quick scheduling, tourist-friendly, competitive pricing, convenient locations near major roads and malls.

Both cities deliver good value and English-speaking dentists. Choose based on where you’ll be staying and your schedule.

Aftercare tips

- Avoid strong-colored drinks (Thai tea, iced coffee, red wine) and spicy curry for a few hours to keep teeth stain-free post-polish.

- If gums feel tender, rinse with warm salt water and use a soft toothbrush.

- Plan cleanings every 6 months; sooner if your dentist advises due to tartar build-up or gum issues.

Red flags to watch

- “Polish only” sold as a full cleaning—make sure ultrasound scaling is included.

- Pressure selling of add-ons you don’t need—ask for the treatment plan and price breakdown.

- No clear receipt or unclear fee structure—always request an itemized bill.

Quick checklist before you book

- Location near BTS/MRT (Bangkok) or your hotel (Pattaya)

- Clear price for scaling & polishing and any promotion

- English-speaking dentist confirmed

- What’s included: exam, fluoride, X-ray if indicated

- Payment method and any card fee

- Opening hours that match your plans

Bottom line

Teeth cleaning in Bangkok and Pattaya is convenient, affordable, and reliable when you know what to ask for. Use LINE or Facebook to secure a slot, choose a clinic near your route, and confirm the inclusions so there are no surprises. Whether you go for a quick scaling & polishing before a beach day in Pattaya or squeeze in a clean between BTS stops in Bangkok, you’ll get solid care and good bang for your baht.