《北上洗牙要帶咩證件？》 What to Bring When You Go Up North for Teeth Cleaning
Planning to go “up north” to Shenzhen, Guangzhou, or other Mainland cities for a quick teeth cleaning? Many people do it because the price is friendly, booking is fast, and clinics are modern. But before you cross the border, better make sure all the documents are ready. Here’s a clear, no-stress guide to what you need to bring, using simple English that feels familiar if you’ve spent time in Thailand—straightforward, easy to follow, and practical.
Quick checklist you can save on your phone:
- Primary travel ID: Home Return Permit (for Hong Kong/Macau residents) or passport
- Visa (if required): China visa or valid visa-free entry proof
- Clinic booking confirmation: screenshot or email
- Payment tools: Alipay/WeChat Pay activated, or cash/UnionPay card
- Health records: past dental X-rays, meds list, allergy info
- Insurance: travel insurance details (optional but recommended)
Now let’s go step by step.
1) For Hong Kong/Macau residents
- Home Return Permit (回鄉證) is the easiest way. Make sure it’s not expired and has enough validity for your trip. If you registered for e-Channel, crossing is fast—very sabai.
- If your Permit is expired or under renewal, you can use your passport instead, but you will likely need a China visa. No Permit, no automatic entry, same same but different.
- Bring a photo of your Permit (front and back) on your phone plus a paper copy. Not always needed, but better safe than sorry.
- Some clinics ask for ID to set up your patient file. Permit is okay for that.
2) For Thai passport holders or other foreign nationals
- Passport is a must, with at least six months validity.
- Check visa requirements before you go. Mainland China now allows foreign-linked Alipay/WeChat Pay, but entry rules are separate. Visa-on-arrival at Shenzhen ports exists in some cases but is limited; queues can be long and policies can change. Better to apply for a visa in advance.
- Keep a soft copy of your passport bio page on your phone and one print copy.
- No routine health declaration now, but always check latest border updates. Policies can change quickly—mai pen rai is nice, but don’t rely on it for immigration.
3) Documents and info the dental clinic may ask
- Identity document: Permit or passport for registration.
- Contact details: Mainland phone number is helpful, but not required. If you only have a Hong Kong or Thai number, many clinics can still call or message you via WhatsApp/WeChat.
- Booking confirmation: Most clinics accept walk-in, but better to make a booking, especially on weekends. Take screenshot of your appointment time, clinic address, and doctor’s name.
- Health records: If you had recent dental X-rays (OPG or bitewings), bring them—hard copy or digital is fine. It helps the dentist do scaling more precisely.
- Medical info: Write down your medicines and allergies (for example penicillin, latex, local
anaesthetic). If you have heart issues or are on blood thinners, inform the clinic.
- Insurance: If you have international travel insurance or dental coverage, bring policy number and hotline. Mainland private clinics usually take cash or e-pay; direct billing is not common, so you may claim later.
4) Payment tips that make life easier
- Most clinics love QR payment: WeChat Pay or Alipay. Foreigners can now link an international credit/debit card to these apps. Set this up before crossing so you don’t stand at the counter trying to top up.
- If you use AlipayHK, you can pay in RMB at many places across the border. Still, test your app in advance. Top up small amount just in case.
- Cash (RMB) is accepted in some clinics, but not all. UnionPay is more common than Visa/Mastercard for card payments in Mainland.
- Keep small bills for transport and snacks. Don’t assume every taxi or small shop can do card or QR for foreigners.
5) Practical travel tips for a smooth “go north” day
- Transport: From Hong Kong, Shenzhen is quick via Lo Wu or Lok Ma Chau, then hop on Shenzhen Metro. In Guangzhou, use the metro or Didi for easy rides.
- Language: Many Shenzhen clinics speak Mandarin; in border areas, Cantonese is common too. If needed, use translation app—can do, very helpful.
- Timing: Book morning slots for shorter queues. Avoid public holidays and payday weekends; clinics get busy.
- Price: Dental scaling in Shenzhen and Guangzhou can be affordable compared to Hong Kong. Ask for the exact package: basic scaling, polishing, fluoride, and whether ultrasound (scaler) is included. Confirm price in advance so no surprise.
- Safety: Choose licensed clinics with good reviews. Check Google Maps, Dianping, or local forums. If a deal looks too cheap, double-check. Teeth, no need to gamble.
6) Common questions, answered
- Do I need a China visa if I have a Home Return Permit? No. The Permit is your entry document. Just make sure it’s valid.
- Can I do walk-in? Many clinics accept walk-in, but booking is safer. One simple message, save your spot, no stress.
- Will they ask for vaccination records? Not usually for scaling. Policies about health checks can change, so check before you go.
- Can I claim insurance? Often you pay first and claim later. Ask the clinic for a tax invoice (fapiao) with your full name and service details.
7) Simple packing list for dental daytrip
- ID and visa documents
- Phone with data, power bank
- Payment tools ready (QR or cash)
- Medical records and allergy list
- Travel insurance info
- Mask and tissues (clinic will provide, but good to have)
- Small water bottle
Final word
Going up north for teeth cleaning is straightforward if your documents are ready and your payment apps are set. Bring the right ID, confirm your booking, and prepare your health info. With a little planning—same same simple—you’ll be in, out, and smiling clean. Safe trip, enjoy your fresh teeth, and take care!
