Chiang Mai Teeth Scaling & Polishing – Full Procedure Explained

Chiang Mai Teeth Scaling & Polishing – Full Procedure Explained

If you’re living in Chiang Mai or visiting for a long weekend, teeth scaling and polishing is one of the easiest ways to freshen your smile and keep your gums healthy. It’s quick, affordable, and widely available at clinics around Nimman, the Old City, Santitham, and along Huay Kaew Road. Below is a clear, friendly guide to what the procedure involves, how it feels, typical costs in Chiang Mai, and a few local tips to make your visit smooth-smooth.

What is teeth scaling and polishing?

Teeth scaling and polishing is a professional dental cleaning. Scaling removes hardened plaque (tartar) from above and just below the gumline. Polishing smooths the enamel to reduce future stain build-up and make your teeth feel squeaky clean. Most clinics in Chiang Mai do both in a single appointment, often topped off with a fluoride treatment for added protection.

Who needs it and how often?

If you drink Thai iced tea, coffee, or enjoy a lot of curry and sauces (same same for many of us), stains and plaque build up faster. Smokers, braces wearers, and people with tight crowding benefit a lot too. As a general rule, book scaling and polishing every six months. If your gums bleed easily, or you’ve been skipping flossing, your dentist may recommend coming every 3–4 months until things stabilise.

The full procedure, step by step

1) Check-in and quick chat

You’ll be greeted with a friendly “sawasdee kha/khrap” and asked to fill a short medical history. If you prefer English, most clinics in Chiang Mai will accommodate. Feel free to mention sensitivity, bleeding, or any previous dental issues.

2) Oral exam and gum assessment

The dentist or dental hygienist checks your teeth and gums, noting plaque, calculus, and any pockets around the teeth. If there’s suspicion of gum disease or hidden decay, they may suggest X-rays—but for routine cleaning, you usually won’t need them.

3) Ultrasonic scaling

A small vibrating tip uses water to gently break up and flush out tartar. You’ll hear a humming sound and feel cool mist. This part focuses on the gumline and between teeth. If some areas need detailed attention, hand scalers are used to fine-tune. For patients with heavier build-up, expect a bit more time spent here, especially on the lower front teeth where calculus loves to stick.

4) Root surface cleaning (only if needed)

If your gums show deeper pockets, the dentist may discuss “deep cleaning” (scaling and root planing). This is more thorough and sometimes done with local anaesthetic. It’s not included in a normal polishing visit, and the fee is higher. The dentist will explain clearly before proceeding.

5) Polishing

A soft rubber cup or brush and a mildly gritty paste are used to smooth the enamel and lift superficial stains. This is the part that leaves your teeth feeling super fresh, like after new year cleaning. Some clinics offer different polishing pastes—minty is common.

6) Fluoride

Many clinics finish with fluoride foam or varnish to strengthen enamel and reduce sensitivity. It takes just a minute or two.

7) Home care briefing

You’ll get tailored advice on brushing technique, flossing or interdental brushes, and mouthwash options available in

Thailand. Don’t hesitate to ask for product recommendations you can pick up at Tops, Big C, or Boots in Maya Mall.

Does it hurt?

For most people, scaling is more “tickly” or “scrappy” than painful. If your gums are inflamed, you might feel some tenderness during and for a day after. Don’t worry—this usually settles quickly. Let the team know if you have sensitive teeth; they can adjust the water temperature, use gentler settings, or apply desensitising gel.

How long does it take?

A routine scaling and polishing usually takes 30–45 minutes. If you have heavy calculus or need deep cleaning, plan for 60–90 minutes and possibly multiple visits.

Chiang Mai pricing: what to expect

Prices vary by clinic and complexity, but a normal teeth scaling and polishing in Chiang Mai typically ranges from about 800–1,800 THB. Fluoride may be included or charged separately (around 300–600 THB). Deep cleaning (for gum disease) is priced per quadrant and can run 2,000–6,000 THB per quadrant depending on severity.

Many clinics share prices via LINE. When you message, ask:

- Is polishing included with scaling?

- Is fluoride included?

- Any extra fee for X-rays if needed?

- Do you have English-speaking staff?

Aftercare tips

- Avoid very hot, cold, or strongly coloured foods for 2–3 hours if you had fluoride varnish.

- Mild sensitivity is normal. Use a desensitising toothpaste (Sensodyne is widely available).

- Brush twice a day with a soft brush and clean between teeth daily (floss or interdental brushes).

- Rinse with a gentle mouthwash if your gums were inflamed; alcohol-free options are easy to find.

- Light bleeding during the first day or two can happen. If bleeding persists beyond a week, book a review.

Choosing a dental clinic in Chiang Mai

- Look for experienced dentists with Thai Dental Council registration displayed.

- Check reviews that mention cleanliness, clear explanation, and gentle care.

- Location matters: Nimman, Old City, and Santitham have many reputable clinics with convenient parking or easy songthaew access.

- Booking via LINE is common. Screenshots of prices and confirmed appointment times help avoid confusion.

- If you have insurance, ask whether routine cleaning is covered. International policies often include preventive care, but benefits vary.

Signs you may need scaling sooner

- Persistent bad breath even after brushing.

- Bleeding gums when brushing or eating.

- Teeth look or feel “rough” near the gumline.

- New stains from coffee, tea, or smoking that don’t brush off.

- Tender gums or a slight metallic taste.

Why it’s worth doing in Chiang Mai

The city has a strong reputation for quality, patient-focused dental care at friendly prices. Clinics are comfortable, staff are polite, and booking is easy. Plus, fitting a 45-minute cleaning between a cafe stop on Nimman and sunset at Doi Suthep is very doable—no stress, mai pen rai vibes.

The bottom line

Teeth scaling and polishing in Chiang Mai is a straightforward, affordable way to keep your mouth healthy and your smile bright. Book every six months, follow the simple aftercare, and don’t be shy to ask questions. With the right clinic and a little home care, you’ll feel the difference straight away—and your gums will thank you.