Table of contents

• What Is Teeth Cleaning?
• Best Teeth Cleaning Clinics in Korea
• Getting Teeth Cleaning in Korea
• Cost of Teeth Cleaning in Korea
• Alternatives to Teeth Cleaning
• Conclusion

Are you ready to enhance your smile and improve your oral health with a visit to one of South Korea’s top dental clinics? Known for its cutting-edge dental technologies and skilled professionals, Korea offers not only exceptional teeth cleaning services but also a comprehensive approach to maintaining oral hygiene. Dive into this guide to learn everything you need to know about teeth cleaning in Korea, including who can benefit, potential costs, and innovative alternatives to traditional cleaning methods that can keep your smile bright and healthy.

What Is Teeth Cleaning?

Teeth cleaning, also known as dental prophylaxis, is a preventive dental procedure aimed at removing plaque, tartar, and other deposits from the teeth surfaces and gums to maintain oral hygiene and prevent dental diseases. It is typically performed by a dental hygienist or dentist during a routine dental visit.

Steps Involved in Teeth Cleaning

1. Physical Examination: Before starting the cleaning process, the dental professional will conduct a physical examination of your mouth. This usually involves using a small mirror to examine your teeth and gums for any signs of decay, inflammation, or other potential concerns.

2. Plaque and Tartar Removal: The dental hygienist uses a scaler, a specialized instrument, to remove plaque and tartar around the gum line and between the teeth. Tartar, or calculus, is hardened plaque that cannot be removed through regular brushing and flossing.

3. Gritty Toothpaste Cleaning: After scaling, the teeth are brushed with a high-powered electric brush and a gritty toothpaste. This step aims to remove any remaining plaque and surface stains. The toothpaste used has a consistency similar to sand and provides deep cleaning.

4. Professional Flossing: The dental hygienist then flosses between your teeth to remove any plaque or toothpaste remnants. Professional flossing helps in identifying any spots that might be prone to bleeding or gum disease.

5. Rinsing: You will be asked to rinse your mouth thoroughly with a liquid fluoride solution to wash away any residual debris.

6. Fluoride Treatment: The final step is the application of a fluoride treatment, which helps to strengthen the teeth and protect them against cavities. The fluoride is often applied in the form of a gel, foam, or varnish and is left on the teeth for a few minutes to ensure its effectiveness.

Benefits of Regular Teeth Cleaning

• Prevention of Cavities: Regular cleaning removes plaque, a sticky deposit that forms on the teeth and can lead to cavities if not regularly removed.
• Avoiding Gum Disease: Plaque and tartar build-up can lead to periodontal disease, which can cause gum inflammation and bone loss.
• Freshening Breath: Effective removal of the elements that cause bad breath keeps your mouth feeling fresh and clean.
• Brightening Your Smile: The removal of stains caused by coffee, tea, wine, and tobacco can lead to visibly whiter teeth.
• Early Detection of Oral Issues: Regular cleaning appointments allow the dentist to detect and treat oral issues, such as cavities and gum disease, at an early stage.
• Overall Health Impact: Poor oral hygiene has been linked to several systemic diseases, including heart disease and diabetes. Maintaining clean teeth helps improve your overall health.

Who Can Benefit from Teeth Cleaning?

• People with Gingivitis: Teeth cleaning helps in identifying and addressing early signs of gingivitis like inflamed gums.
• Individuals with Plaque and Tartar Buildup: Regular professional cleanings can remove plaque and tartar, which cannot be removed by brushing and flossing alone.
• Those Seeking Fresh Breath: Teeth cleaning can significantly improve oral hygiene, reducing bad breath caused by plaque and tartar accumulation.
• Patients with Sensitive Teeth: Over time, regular cleanings can reduce tooth sensitivity by removing buildup and providing fluoride treatments.
• Children and Adults Needing Preventive Care: Additional preventive measures like fluoride treatments and molar sealants are often recommended during teeth cleanings, especially for children.
• Individuals Prone to Cavities or Gum Disease: Regular dental visits and professional cleanings can help in the early detection and prevention of cavities and gum disease.
• Those With Dental Anxiety: Understanding the teeth cleaning process can help alleviate fear and make future visits less daunting.
• Anyone with General Dental Health Goals: Regular cleanings contribute to overall oral health maintenance and prevention of future dental issues.

Best Teeth Cleaning Clinics in Korea

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
Gangnam Gentle Dental Clinic	Convenient accessibility, Customized care, Advanced technology, Comprehensive services, Infection prevention, International friendly	Personalized treatment plans, Cutting-edge digital equipment
Minish Dental Clinic - Gangnam	Personalized care, High-quality services	Minish Veneers, Professional teeth whitening, Customized dental care
Minish Dental Hospital	Cutting-edge dental treatments, Personalized care, Highly awarded	Minish Veneers, Minish Bridges, Molar Minish, Pink Minish, Dual Minish, Minish Implants, Orthodontic treatment, Teeth whitening, Cavities and prosthodontics, Periodontal therapy, Bruxism and TMJ, Minish Dental Spa

Gangnam Gentle Dental Clinic

Gangnam Gentle Dental Clinic, situated in the vibrant district of Seocho-gu, Seoul, stands out as a premier destination for teeth-cleaning and comprehensive dental care in Korea. Under the leadership of Dr. Travis Kim, who brings expertise from Ohio State University and St. Johnsbury Academy, the clinic offers a welcoming environment for international patients, thanks to Dr. Kim's fluency in English. This ensures that language barriers are minimized, allowing for clear communication and understanding of dental needs. The clinic is renowned for its commitment to personalized care, tailoring treatments to meet the unique needs of each patient. With a focus on honest and safe treatment, Gangnam Gentle Dental Clinic is dedicated to delivering bright smiles through a combination of advanced technology and compassionate care.

• Convenient Accessibility: Open on weekdays and weekends, accommodating personal schedules and emergencies.
• Customized Care: Personalized treatment plans tailored to individual patient needs.
• Advanced Technology: Utilizes cutting-edge digital equipment for precise and systematic examinations.
• Comprehensive Services: Offers a wide range of procedures from routine cleanings to specialized treatments like implants and cosmetic dentistry.
• Infection Prevention: Maintains a stringent sterilization system to ensure a safe and germ-free environment.
• International Friendly: Dr. Travis Kim's fluency in English makes it an ideal choice for international patients.

Gangnam Gentle Dental Clinic's dedication to reducing treatment periods and hospital visits through ongoing research and development ensures that patients receive only necessary treatments following thorough consultations, making it a top choice for dental care in Korea.

You can check out their website here: Gangnam Gentle Dental Clinic Website

Minish Dental Clinic - Gangnam

Minish Dental Clinic, located in the bustling district of Gangnam, Seoul, stands out as a premier destination for teeth-cleaning and other dental procedures in Korea. Renowned for its commitment to personalized care, the clinic aims to provide each patient with a perfect smile through a range of high-quality services.

• Minish Veneers: These veneers are meticulously custom-crafted to fit each patient's teeth, enhancing both the form and function of the smile. They offer a natural, aesthetic appearance while safeguarding the underlying tooth structure.

• Professional Teeth Whitening: This advanced procedure can lighten teeth by several shades in just one session, ensuring minimal sensitivity and delivering long-lasting, brighter results.

• Customized Dental Care: Minish Dental Clinic emphasizes personalized treatment plans, tailoring each plan to meet the unique oral health needs and cosmetic goals of the patient. This ensures optimal results without compromising on oral health and safety.

With its focus on individualized care and cutting-edge dental solutions, Minish Dental Clinic is a top choice for those seeking exceptional teeth-cleaning services in Korea.

You can check out their website here: Minish Dental Clinic - Gangnam Website

Minish Dental Hospital

Minish Dental Hospital, the most highly awarded dental clinic in Asia, is renowned for its exceptional blend of cutting-edge dental treatments and personalized care. Located in the heart of Gangnam, Seoul, this clinic stands out as a beacon of excellence in the dental community. It boasts impressive statistics with 113,118 cases handled, 84,504 hours of research and development, and a dedicated team of 102 top dentists and technicians. The clinic is particularly famous for its innovative Minish Veneers among other advanced dental procedures. With 19 of the most advanced pieces of dental equipment, Minish Dental Hospital ensures each patient receives the highest quality of care. Esteemed for both its technical advancements and patient-centric approach, the clinic's specialists, including CEOs Dr. Jung Ho Kang and a team of veneer, orthodontic, and general dental specialists, are committed to treating patients as family, focusing on honest, ethical, and highly personalized treatment plans. Whether it's for routine care or a complete smile makeover, Minish Dental Hospital is the choice of Korea's top celebrities and anyone seeking superior dental care.

• Minish Veneers: Custom, semi-permanent veneers requiring minimal to no tooth shaving, designed for a natural appearance.
• Minish Bridges: Aesthetic and efficient solutions for missing teeth, minimizing tooth alterations.
• Molar Minish: Targets extensive molar damage, preserving gum health.
• Pink Minish: Improves function and appearance for those with receding gums.
• Dual Minish: Shields anterior teeth without extensive tooth removal.
• Minish Implants: Seamless dental implant solutions.
• Orthodontic Treatment: Corrects improperly positioned teeth and jaws.
• Teeth Whitening: Enhances smile by removing stains and discoloration.
• Cavities and Prosthodontics: Restores oral function with crowns, bridges, and dentures.
• Periodontal Therapy: Preserves gum and bone health.
• Bruxism and TMJ: Solutions for jaw joint health and teeth grinding.
• Minish Dental Spa: Combines dental care with spa treatments for a relaxing experience.

You can check out their website here: Minish Dental Hospital Website

Getting Teeth Cleaning in Korea

Teeth cleaning, known medically as prophylaxis, is a crucial procedure for maintaining oral hygiene and preventing dental issues. In Korea, this procedure is carried out with meticulous attention to detail, utilizing advanced technology and thorough techniques.

Initial Consultation and Examination

Upon scheduling an appointment, the process typically begins with an initial consultation and examination. This is conducted by a dental hygienist or a dentist. During this session, the dental professional will review the patient’s medical history, assess any present dental concerns, and conduct a comprehensive oral examination. This might include taking digital X-rays to identify any underlying issues that are not visible to the naked eye.

Scaling

The primary step in the teeth cleaning process is scaling. In Korea, this is often performed using an ultrasonic scaler, a device that utilizes high-frequency vibrations to dislodge plaque and tartar from the teeth and gum line. The ultrasonic scaler is efficient in removing both superficial and deeply embedded deposits without causing discomfort. Dental professionals may also use hand-held scaling instruments to meticulously clean areas that the ultrasonic scaler can't reach.

Polishing

Once the scaling is completed, the next step is polishing the teeth. This involves the use of a prophylactic paste, which is applied with a rotating rubber cup or brush. The paste contains mild abrasives that help in smoothing the tooth surfaces and removing any remaining plaque or stains. This step not only enhances the appearance of the teeth but also makes it difficult for plaque to accumulate in the future.

Flossing

After polishing, the dental hygienist will floss between the teeth to remove any remaining debris and ensure that all surfaces are clean. This step is critical as it addresses areas that are often missed during regular brushing and helps in maintaining the health of the gums.

Fluoride Treatment

Many dental clinics in Korea offer a fluoride treatment as an additional preventive measure. Fluoride gel or foam is applied to the teeth using a mouth tray. The fluoride treatment strengthens the tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay. Patients are usually advised not to eat or drink for at least 30 minutes following this treatment to allow maximum fluoride absorption.

Post-Cleaning Inspection

The final step involves a post-cleaning inspection by the dentist. They will check the teeth and gums for any signs of infection, decay, or other issues that may need further intervention. If any problems are detected, a treatment plan will be discussed and scheduled accordingly.

Patient Education

Education is a key component of the teeth cleaning process in Korea. Dental professionals take the time to educate patients on effective oral hygiene practices, including proper brushing and flossing techniques, dietary recommendations, and the importance of regular dental check-ups. This holistic approach ensures that patients can maintain their oral health long after leaving the clinic.

Advanced Technologies

Korea is renowned for its adoption of cutting-edge dental technologies. Many clinics utilize digital imaging, laser dentistry, and air polishing techniques to enhance the efficacy and comfort of teeth cleaning procedures. These advanced technologies contribute to a more accurate diagnosis and a more pleasant patient experience.

Frequency of Teeth Cleaning

The frequency of professional teeth cleaning sessions is generally recommended at least twice a year. However, individuals with certain dental conditions such as periodontal disease may require more frequent visits. Korean dental clinics often provide personalized care plans based on the specific needs and oral health status of the patient.

Cost of Teeth Cleaning in Korea

Procedure Price	Korean Won (₩)	USD ($)
Low Price	₩100,000	$100
High Price	₩150,000	$100

Exchange rate as of 2025-04-30: 1 KRW = 0.0007 USD

Please note that these prices are approximate guidelines and can vary significantly based on the clinic and your individual circumstances.

Teeth cleaning, or prophylaxis, is an essential aspect of oral health that can prevent various dental issues. The cost of dental care can vary significantly from one country to another, influenced by factors such as healthcare systems, insurance coverage, and the overall cost of living.

South Korea

South Korea is known for its advanced medical technologies and highly skilled healthcare professionals, and dental care is no exception. The cost of teeth cleaning in South Korea typically ranges from ₩60,000 to ₩100,000 KRW (approximately $50 to $85 USD). Many dental clinics in Korea also offer packages that include additional services such as X-rays, scaling, and fluoride treatment, which can slightly increase the overall cost but provide comprehensive care.

United States

In the United States, dental care costs are generally higher due to a variety of factors, including the privatized healthcare system and the use of advanced dental technologies. The average cost of teeth cleaning in the U.S. ranges from $75 to $200 USD, depending on the location and whether the patient has dental insurance. Without insurance, the prices can be on the higher end of this range or even exceed it.

Other Countries

• United Kingdom: The cost of teeth cleaning in the UK varies widely between private and NHS dental practices. While NHS patients may pay around £23.80 (approximately $30 USD) for a standard cleaning, private clinics may charge between £50 to £100 (approximately $65 to $130 USD).

• Australia: In Australia, the cost for a professional teeth cleaning session typically ranges from AUD $100 to $200 (approximately $70 to $140 USD). Some private health insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost.

• India: Dental care in India is considerably more affordable compared to Western countries. The cost of teeth cleaning ranges from ₹500 to ₹1,500 (approximately $6 to $20 USD), making it an attractive destination for dental tourism.

• Canada: In Canada, the cost of teeth cleaning is generally comparable to that of the U.S. Prices range from CAD $100 to $200 (approximately $75 to $150 USD). Provincial health plans usually do not cover dental services, so patients often rely on private insurance or out-of-pocket payment.

Alternatives to Teeth Cleaning

While professional teeth cleaning is an integral part of dental care, there are several alternative methods that can help maintain oral hygiene and prevent dental issues. Below, we explore three suitable alternatives to traditional teeth cleaning:

Oil Pulling

Oil pulling is a traditional oral health practice originating from ancient Ayurvedic medicine. It involves swishing a tablespoon of oil, such as coconut, sesame, or sunflower oil, in your mouth for about 15-20 minutes before spitting it out. This method is believed to reduce harmful bacteria, alleviate bad breath, and promote overall oral health. The oil acts as a natural mouthwash, which helps in removing plaque build-up and reducing the risk of gum diseases. While it is not a substitute for brushing and flossing, oil pulling can be a beneficial addition to your oral care routine.

Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide Paste

Another alternative to professional teeth cleaning is using a homemade paste made from baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Baking soda is a mild abrasive that helps remove surface stains from teeth, while hydrogen peroxide is a natural bleaching agent that can help whiten teeth and reduce bacteria. To create the paste, mix a small amount of hydrogen peroxide with enough baking soda to form a thick paste, then use this mixture to brush your teeth. This method, when used in moderation, can effectively clean your teeth and freshen your breath. However, it's important to note that overuse can damage tooth enamel, so it should be used sparingly.

Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal has gained popularity as a natural teeth whitening and cleaning agent. The highly absorbent nature of activated charcoal allows it to bind with and remove stains from the surface of the teeth. To use activated charcoal for teeth cleaning, simply dip a damp toothbrush into powdered activated charcoal and brush your teeth gently for two minutes. After brushing, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water to remove any charcoal residue. While activated charcoal can help improve the appearance of your teeth, it should be used with caution as its abrasive nature may lead to enamel erosion if used frequently.

These alternatives can complement your regular oral hygiene practices, but they are not replacements for professional dental care. Regular visits to the dentist are crucial for maintaining long-term oral health and addressing any potential dental issues.

Conclusion

In conclusion, teeth cleaning in Korea is a highly advanced and sophisticated practice that combines cutting-edge technology with a deep cultural appreciation for dental health. The country's dental clinics offer exemplary services, often at more affordable prices compared to other nations, making it an attractive destination for locals and medical tourists alike. With stringent hygiene standards and a preventive approach to dental care, patients can expect not only a thorough cleaning but also a comprehensive assessment of their overall oral health. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, prioritizing your dental hygiene in Korea is a smart, beneficial, and accessible choice.