Title: 《北上洗牙要唔要帶現金？》 Do you need cash when going north for a teeth clean?
If you’re planning a quick trip up to Shenzhen or Guangzhou for a dental cleaning, you’re not alone. Many Hong Kong people go north for scaling and polishing because it’s convenient, fast, and usually cheaper. But one common question pops up every time: should you bring cash? Short answer: not much. Mainland China is very cashless now, especially in big cities. Still, carry a small amount of RMB just in case, so you can feel sabai-sabai and not be jai rawn if a payment hiccup happens.
How people pay at dental clinics in Mainland China today
In Shenzhen and other major cities, most clinics prefer mobile payments:
- WeChat Pay (Weixin Pay)
- Alipay
- UnionPay QR
Cash is still legal and many clinics will accept it, but staff might look a bit surprised if you hand over big notes. Smaller neighbourhood clinics may still prefer cash, though. Credit cards like Visa or Mastercard are less commonly used at smaller clinics; big private hospitals or international dental chains are more likely to accept them. So practically speaking, going cashless is the norm, but having a plan B in RMB is smart.
If you’re crossing from Hong Kong
Good news: for Hong Kong residents, cross-border e-wallets are quite smooth now.
- AlipayHK Mainland China service works in most places up north. Make sure you’ve activated the cross-border function in the app and have enough balance or a linked card. FX fees apply.
- WeChat Pay HK can also be used across the border at many merchants and clinics that support QR payment.
- Octopus doesn’t work in Mainland clinics.
- e-CNY (digital RMB) exists, and foreigners can open a basic wallet using a passport, but usage in dental clinics isn’t as widespread as WeChat/Alipay, so treat it as optional.
Set up your apps before you go. Update them, verify identity if needed, and test a small payment at a convenience store after you arrive. No need to be gan-jai; once it’s activated, paying is same same but different from Hong Kong.
If you’re visiting from Thailand or using Thai-style banking
Thailand now has quite mature cross-border QR systems with a few places in China, but acceptance at medical facilities can vary by city and clinic. Some Thai banking apps let you scan UnionPay or partner QRs, but don’t assume every clinic will accept a Thai bank QR yet. If you rely on cards, note that Alipay and WeChat Pay now let many foreigners link international Visa/Mastercard directly in-app, which makes life much easier. Check your bank’s current policy before travel.
How much does a teeth cleaning cost up north?
Prices depend on the clinic brand, dentist’s experience, and whether you need extras like an X-ray or deep scaling. As a rough guide:
- Basic ultrasonic scaling and polishing: around RMB 200 to 600 in many private clinics in Shenzhen
- Promotions can be lower (limited-time deals), while premium clinics with English-speaking staff can be higher
- Add-ons such as an OPG/panoramic X-ray or fluoride treatment are extra
Compared with Hong Kong, many people find the total bill lighter, but don’t be surprised if the clinic suggests additional treatments. If you’re not ready, just
smile and say you’ll consider next time. Mai pen rai.
How to ask a clinic about payment before you go
Message the clinic on WeChat or call them to check:
- Do you accept WeChat Pay or Alipay?
- Can I pay with cash?
- Do you take credit cards (Visa/Mastercard/UnionPay)?
- What’s the price for scaling? Any extra fees like registration?
Useful phrases if you need them:
- WeChat/Alipay OK? In Mandarin: kěyǐ yòng Wēixìn huò Zhīfùbǎo ma?
- How much is scaling? In Mandarin: xǐyá duōshǎo qián?
What to bring if you still want some cash
Even though China is very e-wallet friendly, bring a little RMB for peace of mind. Think RMB 200–500 in small notes (like 10s, 20s, 50s). You can:
- Exchange HKD to RMB at a money changer before crossing
- Withdraw from an ATM in China using a card that supports UnionPay and overseas withdrawals (fees apply)
Keep small notes—some places don’t love giving change for big bills.
Step-by-step plan for a smooth, cash-light dental trip
1) Book ahead. Use the clinic’s website, WeChat, or phone. Choose a time slot and ask about payment methods.
2) Prep your apps. Activate AlipayHK or WeChat Pay HK and top up. If you’re a foreign visitor, set up Alipay/WeChat Pay with your passport and link a card if supported in your region.
3) Bring backup RMB. Small notes only. Not too much—just emergency money.
4) Travel light. An ID document (Home Return Permit or passport), your phone with roaming or a local data plan, and your appointment confirmation.
5) At the clinic, confirm the price first. Ask if the quoted fee includes scaling, polishing, and any registration fee. If they propose extra treatments, don’t feel pressured; you can say you’ll think about it.
6) Pay and get a receipt. If you need it for insurance or employer benefits, ask for a fapiao (official invoice).
Extra tips that make it easy
- Data is key. Mobile payments need internet. Get roaming or a Mainland eSIM so your apps can scan and confirm payments.
- Location matters. In Shenzhen, clinics near checkpoints, malls, or office areas usually handle cross-border customers daily and have smoother payment acceptance.
- Language. In Shenzhen, many staff can handle basic English or Cantonese, especially in larger clinics. Translation apps help if needed.
- Hygiene and standards. Look for clinics with clear sterilization procedures and registered dentists. Chain clinics and hospital dental departments tend to be consistent.
- Time your visit. Weekends can be busy. Go early or book a weekday slot if you want in-and-out.
- Keep it sabai-sabai. Scaling takes 20–40 minutes if it’s routine. Don’t rush; let the dentist check your gums and give advice.
So, do you need to bring cash?
- For most people going north for teeth cleaning: bring a little, not a lot. Mainland China is highly cashless, and WeChat Pay or Alipay will handle almost everything at clinics in Shenzhen and other big cities.
- If you’re unsure about your e-wallet setup, confirm with the clinic first and carry backup RMB for comfort.
Bottom line: Set up your mobile payments before you go, carry a small cushion of RMB, and you’ll be sorted—no stress, no fuss, just clean teeth and a smooth trip. Sabai-sabai, khun will be fine.
