Moving to Curaçao is exciting. The sun’s out, the beaches are beautiful, and the lifestyle is more laid back than most of us are used to.
But once the novelty of sipping fresh juice under a palm tree wears off, real life kicks in.
You need to figure out how to settle down, find a local grocery store, and yes—find a reliable dentist.
One thing that gets overlooked in the process?
Your dental records. And let’s face it—nobody wants to start from scratch at the dentist’s office.
We’re sure your wisdom teeth saga deserves more than a shrug and a guess.
Luckily, transferring your dental records as an expat in Curaçao isn’t rocket science.
In this guide, we’ll break down how it works and how you can make it painless. Not literally—we’ll leave the painless part to the dentist.
Why Your Dental Records Matter
Dental records are like a map of your mouth. They include your medical history, past procedures, x-rays, allergies, and even details like your bite alignment.
These records help your new dentist know what’s been done, what needs to be monitored, and what to avoid.
Without them, it’s guesswork. And in dentistry, guesswork can lead to unnecessary treatments, missed issues, or even repeat x-rays—which isn’t fun for anyone.
Step 1: Contact Your Previous Dentist
Before booking your first appointment on the island, contact your previous dental clinic.
Most practices are used to this kind of request and should be able to send your records via email, secure upload, or even snail mail (though we don’t recommend that last one unless you like waiting).
What to ask for:
- Full dental chart
- Radiographs (x-rays)
- Periodontal records
- Notes on any ongoing treatments
- A treatment summary if possible
Most countries require patient consent before releasing records, so expect to fill out a form or send a signed request.
Step 2: Choose a Dental Clinic in Curaçao
This part matters.
You want a clinic that understands the needs of expats, communicates clearly, and doesn’t make you feel like you’re navigating a system you don’t fully understand.
At Sta. Rosa Klinika Dental, we help expats every day.
Whether you’re from the US, Europe, or South America, our team is used to working with international records and dental histories. And yes—we speak English fluently, so nothing gets lost in translation.
If you’re curious about what we offer, take a look at our dental services in Curacao.
Step 3: Send Your Records Before the Appointment
Once you’ve chosen your dental clinic, send your records in advance. This gives the dentist time to review your case, flag any concerns, and prep the right tools for your first visit.
If you’re coming to Sta. Rosa Klinika Dental, you can send your records directly to us via email. We’ll confirm receipt and follow up if anything’s missing.
Step 4: Book a First Consultation
Now that the paperwork is out of the way, it’s time to meet your new dentist. During your first visit, we’ll review your records, check your current oral health, and make a plan for any needed care or ongoing treatments.
It’s a good chance to ask questions, raise concerns, and get comfortable with the clinic and staff. We want you to feel like you’re in good hands—not like you’re starting all over again.
Step 5: Keep Your Records Updated
Living abroad doesn’t mean your dental history should stop growing.
Every new treatment or check-up you have in Curaçao will be added to your file. If you ever move again, you’ll be glad you kept everything in one place.
At Sta. Rosa Klinika Dental, we securely store your records and can forward them to your next dentist if you ever leave the island.
FAQ
Do I need to have my records translated?
Usually, no. Most dental terminology is fairly standard worldwide. Our team is used to reading records in Dutch, Spanish, English, and even some German and French. If anything is unclear, we’ll reach out and clarify with you.
What if my old clinic refuses to send my records?
In some cases, clinics may delay or decline. If that happens, ask for a written treatment summary instead. At minimum, try to bring any recent x-rays or notes you may have saved. We can work with whatever information you have, but more is always better.
Are digital records okay, or do I need hard copies?
Digital records are preferred. They’re easier to store, review, and update. We accept PDFs, JPEGs of x-rays, and any files your previous clinic can send securely via email.
What if I’ve never had a regular dentist before?
No worries. We’ll treat you like a blank slate and go from there. Your first visit might take a bit longer so we can build your profile and start fresh. The important thing is that you’re here now and ready to take care of your smile.
How secure are my dental records in Curaçao?
We follow strict data protection rules and use secure software for storing and managing all patient files. Your records are private and only accessed by authorized staff when needed.
Conclusion
Moving countries comes with a lot of moving parts. Dental records might not be the first thing on your checklist—but they should be on there.
With a little planning, transferring them is simple, and it makes your new start in Curaçao that much smoother.
If you’re looking for a reliable, English-speaking dental clinic in Curaçao, Sta. Rosa Klinika Dental is here to help. From handling your records to keeping your teeth in top shape, we’ve got your back.
Have any questions or want to book your first check-up? Just reach out. We’ll make sure everything’s ready for you.
