According to the Cleveland Clinic, professional cleanings involve removing hardened plaque and tartar to keep your teeth and gums healthy – and you get this same top-notch care here in CDMX for a fraction of the price. Read on to see what's included, why prices are lower, and how to make the most of your dental visit in Mexico City.
Why Mexico City for your dental cleaning?
Significant cost savings
The most compelling reason to get your dental cleaning in Mexico City is the dramatic cost savings. You can save approximately 50-70% on dental treatments like cleanings compared to U.S. prices. Here's a quick comparison:
- Cleaning in CDMX: ~$60 USD
- Cleaning in USA: ~$150 USD
- Your savings: 60% or $90 USD
Many clinics offer routine checkups and cleanings for as low as $35-$60 total, making preventive care extremely accessible. These aren't discounted services – they're standard prices that reflect the local economy while maintaining international quality standards.
Quality of care & safety
Affordable doesn't mean low-quality in Mexico City's dental landscape. Many dentists here have international training, and reputable clinics adhere to strict standards. About 80% of clinics in expat areas hold international quality certifications, and top clinics follow sterilization protocols meeting NOM-013-SSA2-2015 (Mexico's dental health norm).
At hisonrisa, we even mirror U.S. CDC sterilization guidelines for your safety. This compliance ensures that every instrument is properly sterilized, surfaces are disinfected between patients, and all safety protocols match or exceed what you'd find in North American clinics.
English-speaking dentists
Communication won't be an issue during your dental visit. Over 90% of clinics in areas like Roma, Polanco, and Condesa have English-speaking dentists. Our team at hisonrisa is fully bilingual, so you can relax and ask questions freely without any language barriers getting in the way of your care.
Experience & comfort
Modern dental clinics in Mexico City offer amenities that make your visit comfortable and stress-free. Our Roma Sur clinic provides noise-cancelling headphones and aromatherapy during cleanings to help you relax. We understand that dental visits can cause anxiety, so we've created an environment designed to put you at ease from the moment you walk in.
How much does a dental cleaning cost in Mexico City?
Transparent pricing at hisonrisa
At hisonrisa, a standard cleaning is MXN $1,199 (~$60 USD) – this flat fee covers your entire visit with no hidden charges. Here's exactly what's included:
- Initial exam and consultation
- Ultrasonic scaling to remove plaque and tartar
- Professional polishing
- Fluoride treatment
- Personalized oral hygiene tips
We believe in straightforward prices with no surprises. Our consultation fee is $499 MXN, which is applicable to treatments ≥ $5,999 MXN.
Average city-wide pricing range
Across Mexico City, basic cleaning costs range roughly $800 – $1,500 MXN in most clinics (about $45-$85 USD). Our price sits competitively within this range while maintaining exceptional quality standards. The variation in pricing often reflects:
- Clinic location (tourist areas vs. local neighborhoods)
- Equipment and technology used
- Additional services included
- Dentist experience and credentials
Comparison to U.S./Canada costs
In the U.S., cleanings average about $150 USD – making our service approximately 60% more affordable. Even factoring in travel costs for dental tourists, many find it's still cheaper to get routine care here. Pacific Prime notes that routine checkup and cleaning packages in Mexico can be as low as $35-$60, versus easily $200 in the States for the same services.
This price difference becomes even more significant if you need multiple procedures or have a family requiring dental care. Many expats living in Mexico City report saving thousands of dollars annually on their family's dental needs.
What affects the cost?
The price might vary if you require a deep cleaning (for gum disease) instead of a routine cleaning, or if you add elective treatments like whitening. A routine prophylaxis cleaning is typically a fixed price. If your case requires additional work due to excessive tartar buildup or gum issues, a reputable clinic will inform you beforehand of any extra costs – maintaining our "no surprises" policy.
What does a professional dental cleaning involve?
Understanding the cleaning process helps ease any concerns about getting dental care abroad. Here's exactly what happens during your visit:
1. Check-in & examination
When you arrive at our Roma Sur clinic, you'll complete a brief health history form. The dentist or hygienist performs a quick dental exam and may take digital X-rays if needed to check for any issues before cleaning begins.
2. Plaque & tartar removal (scaling)
Using an ultrasonic scaler and hand tools for precision, we gently remove plaque and hardened tartar from your teeth, especially along the gumline and between teeth. Don't worry – this typically doesn't hurt. Most patients feel only mild pressure. If your gums are sensitive, we can apply a numbing gel to keep you comfortable.
3. Polishing
We polish your teeth with a special paste that removes minor stains and makes your teeth feel smooth. This leaves you with that slick, "just cleaned" feeling and can brighten your smile by removing surface discoloration.
4. Flossing & rinse
We floss between your teeth to ensure all debris is gone and have you rinse. If needed, we apply a fluoride treatment – painting a protective varnish on your teeth to strengthen enamel, especially beneficial if you haven't had a cleaning in a while.
5. Final check & tips
The dentist does a final check of your teeth and gums. We'll let you know if we spotted any issues (like a small cavity or gingivitis) and give you tailored advice on brushing technique or areas to focus on. Feel free to ask any questions!
The entire process typically takes 30-60 minutes. By the end, you'll walk out with a fresh, squeaky-clean smile 😊 and hopefully a new favorite dentist in Mexico City.
Real experiences – what our patients say
Including real patient experiences helps build trust and gives you a better idea of what to expect:
"From the moment I walked into the clinic in Roma Sur, I felt a very different atmosphere – relaxed, beautiful, and completely stress-free. They gave me a dental cleaning and a very thorough assessment, all with great patience and clear explanations. What surprised me most was the personal attention: you don't feel like 'another patient,' but like someone truly important. Plus, they have modern tech and you can tell they care about every detail. I live near Condesa, and I've definitely found my trusted dentists in CDMX. Highly recommended!" — Miguel Joya, Mexico City (Roma Sur)
This testimonial from an English-speaking local patient demonstrates the quality of care, thoroughness of the cleaning, comfort level, and trust that our clinic provides. See more patient reviews on Google – we're proud to maintain a 5-star rating!
FAQ – dental cleaning in Mexico City
Is dental care in Mexico City safe for foreigners?
Yes – Mexico City has modern clinics that meet rigorous standards. Top clinics follow NOM-013-SSA2-2015 sterilization protocols (Mexico's dental norm) and even U.S. CDC guidelines. Many dentists are internationally trained. As a result, getting a cleaning in CDMX is as safe as in the U.S., with the bonus of saving money.
How often should I get a dental cleaning?
Dentists generally recommend a cleaning every 6 months for most adults. If you have gum issues, you might benefit from cleanings every 3-4 months. Staying regular with cleanings prevents plaque buildup, keeping your teeth and gums healthy so you avoid bigger treatments later.
How long does a teeth cleaning take?
A routine dental cleaning in Mexico City usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. The appointment might run longer if it's been a while since your last cleaning (due to more tartar to remove) or if you combine it with preventive care services, but it's typically under an hour.
Does a dental cleaning hurt?
Not for most people. You'll feel some vibration and mild scraping, but no significant pain. Our dentists use gentle ultrasonic tools. If you have sensitive gums or a lot of tartar, we can apply a numbing gel. Patients often say the process is easier than expected – and totally worth it for that fresh feeling!
Do I need X-rays with my cleaning?
Only if it's been a while or you have symptoms. Many patients get annual X-rays, not at every cleaning. If you're due for a set or if we spot something during your checkup, we'll discuss it. Otherwise, a regular cleaning visit usually doesn't require new X-rays.
What's the difference between a regular cleaning and a deep cleaning?
A regular cleaning (prophylaxis) cleans above and just below the gumline – it's preventive care for healthy gums. A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) goes further under the gums to remove bacteria from deep pockets. Deep cleanings treat early gum disease and may be done under local anesthesia. If your gums are healthy, you only need a standard cleaning.
Can I get a cleaning and dental exam in the same visit?
Definitely. In fact, we include an exam with your cleaning here. Many clinics offer an "exam + cleaning" combo. For example, at our office an exam is $35 and a cleaning $60, so together it's $95 USD – still far less than one preventive visit in the US. Combining them saves time and money, and you'll get an updated dental health status along with your cleaning.
Will my US or Canadian dental insurance cover a cleaning in Mexico?
Some will reimburse out-of-network care. We provide detailed, itemized receipts. You pay upfront here (our cleaning is only ~$60, often less than an insurance co-pay in the US). Later, you can submit the receipt to your insurer for possible reimbursement. It's wise to check with your insurance provider first, but many patients do get partial refunds.
How do I book a cleaning in Mexico City as an expat?
It's easy – most clinics cater to international patients. At hisonrisa, you can book an appointment via WhatsApp (fastest), phone, or email. English is spoken, and we'll find an appointment that fits your schedule. Tip: Book a week ahead if you want a specific day/time, though last-minute slots are often available.
What about COVID-19 and hygiene measures?
Dental clinics in CDMX follow strict hygiene protocols. Since COVID, we've enhanced measures: pre-screening questions, temperature checks, mandatory masks in the office (except during treatment), HEPA air purifiers, and extra disinfection time between patients. You can feel confident that your health is our priority during your visit.
Do Mexico City dentists offer payment plans for treatments?
While a routine cleaning is affordable at $60 USD, some clinics offer payment plans for more extensive treatments. Many accept credit cards, and some work with medical financing companies. For a simple cleaning, payment plans usually aren't necessary given the low cost, but it's worth asking about options for larger procedures.
Ready for a cleaner, brighter smile?
A dental cleaning in Mexico City is high-quality, safe, and extremely affordable – often around 1/3 the cost you'd pay back home. With English-speaking dentists and strict safety standards, you can enjoy preventive care without the worry or the hefty price tag.
If you're in Mexico City (or planning a visit), why not take advantage of the savings and treat your teeth to a professional cleaning? 😊
We're conveniently located in Roma Sur with easy access from anywhere in the city. Our consultation fee of $499 MXN is applicable to your treatment when you proceed with services ≥ $5,999 MXN. Your smile and your wallet will both leave happy! 😊
Important Medical Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical or dental advice. Always consult with a qualified dentist or healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Results may vary by patient. hisonrisa is not responsible for decisions made based solely on the information in this blog.
