How to Switch Dentists in South Surrey Without Losing Your Records

Switching dentists can feel awkward, but it's a routine request and your records belong to you. Here's how to make the move smoothly.

Step 1: Decide what you want in a new dental home

Before you call anywhere, jot down what's missing at your current clinic — evening hours, sedation, same-day crowns, or clearer pricing. This helps you compare practices on what actually matters to you.

Step 2: Book a new patient exam first

Most clinics, including Morgan Heights Dental Centre, start with a comprehensive exam so a new dentist can see your mouth firsthand before relying on old files.

Step 3: Request your records in writing

Email or sign a short release at your former clinic asking for:

• Recent x-rays (usually digital, sent as a file)
• Chart notes and treatment history
• Any pending treatment plans or specialist referrals

Clinics in BC are required to release these, though they may charge a small copying fee.

Step 4: Have records sent directly to the new office

Ask the previous clinic to email the file to your new dentist. This avoids you managing large image files yourself and gets everything into your new chart before the first cleaning.

Step 5: Confirm insurance and billing details

Bring your insurance card to the first visit and ask about direct billing so nothing slips through the cracks during the transition.

Moving dentists doesn't need to be dramatic — a single phone call usually starts the process. If you're exploring options in South Surrey, our new patient page walks through what to expect on day one.