How Much Does It Cost to Transfer Dental Records in Canada? Fees Explained

Dental
Jul 28, 2025

How much does it cost to transfer dental records in Canada? Patients often ask this when they change dentists, move to a new city, or need to share their dental history with a specialist. 

At The Junction Family Dental Care in Toronto, we believe you should have full access to your dental information. 

If you’re transferring records for a simple cleaning, an orthodontic consultation, or a more complex procedure like a root canal or wisdom teeth removal, knowing these details can save you time, money, and stress.

What Are Dental Records and Why Do They Matter?

Dental records contain important information collected by your dentist during your visits. 

This usually includes:

  • Your treatment history, such as details about fillings, crowns, extractions, implants, and braces.
  • X-rays and imaging, including panoramic scans and bitewings.
  • Chart notes, which detail your gum health, cavities, and other conditions.
  • Dental impressions, whether physical or digital molds of your teeth.

Your dental records are essential because they help your new dentist understand your oral health history. 

They also prevent unnecessary procedures, like getting repeat X-rays.

Most importantly, your records save time in diagnosing and planning treatments. 

These documents also ensure you receive consistent care, especially if you are undergoing ongoing treatments, like braces

So, How Much Does It Cost to Transfer Dental Records in Canada?

In Canada, dental clinics can charge you a fee to prepare and send your records. 

Typically, this fee ranges from $0 to $50 for basic file transfers. 

But if your records include many X-rays, 3D images, or old materials, the fee can increase to $200 or more.

So you can have a better picture, here’s a summary of common costs:

  • Basic file transfer (digital): Free – $50  
  • X-ray copies (per image): $10 – $25  
  • Full chart and X-ray package: $25 – $75  
  • 3D CBCT scan transfer: $50 – $200+  

If you are only transferring recent records, the cost is usually low. 

However, if you have been with the same clinic for many years, the fee may be higher due to the larger amount of data.

Who Pays for the Transfer?

Typically, the patient pays the transfer fee when moving dental records. 

Dental insurance usually doesn’t cover this fee because it is seen as an administrative task, not a clinical procedure. 

Always check with the clinic you are transferring your records to see if they offer this benefit, this can help you save money.

How to Request a Dental Record Transfer

To transfer your dental records, follow these pretty simple steps:

1. Contact your current dentist and them you want your records sent to your new clinic.

2. Sign a release form to give written consent due to privacy laws.

3. Pay any fees and your new clinic will inform you of any costs before processing your request.

4. Choose the transfer format. Digital transfers are quicker, while physical copies may take longer.

If you’re in Toronto and moving to The Junction, we will help with most of the process.

Our team will contact your old clinic, request the needed files, and keep you updated along the way.

What about Privacy Laws and Your Rights?

In Canada, your dental records are protected by privacy laws specific to each province, like PHIPA in Ontario. So: 

  • You have the right to access your dental records whenever you want.
  • Your clinic must provide these records within a reasonable time, usually 30 days.
  • They can charge a fee, but it must be reasonable and explained to you beforehand.
  • While the dental office owns your records, you have the right to get a copy of them.

When Should You Transfer Your Records?

You need to transfer your dental records if you are: 

  • Moving to a new city or province.
  • Changing dentists because of location, insurance, or personal choice.
  • Seeing a specialist like an orthodontist, oral surgeon, or periodontist.
  • Needing emergency dental care where your medical history matters.
  • Getting a second opinion before big procedures, like dental implants or crowns.

Also, if you plan to have major dental work, transferring your records helps your new provider understand your background. 

Ways to Save on Record Transfer Costs

Here are some easy tips to save money when you ask for your dental records:

1. Ask for only what you need. If you just want a few things, like X-rays or notes, just ask for those.

2. Choose digital copies, as they cost less and are quicker to get than paper copies.

Why Choose The Junction for Your Next Dental Visit?

At The Junction Family Dental Care, we make switching dentists easy and stress-free:

  • Our dentists and helpers make sure you feel comfortable.
  • We clean teeth and help with other dental needs.
  • We have the latest equipment to take care of your teeth.
  • We tell you how much everything costs before you start.
  • Our office is in a good spot in Toronto.

In Summary

How much does it cost to transfer dental records?

Getting your dental records in Canada can cost between free and over $200, depending on what you need. 

Usually, the patient pays, but some new patients might not need to pay.

It's an easy process, it keeps your information safe, and having your records helps your dentist take better care of you.

If you need a dentist in Toronto and want it to be simple, contact The Junction Family Dental Care.

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