Why they are not part of your request
X-rays and photos of your teeth are health data, which the law treats as especially sensitive. An X-ray usually shows your name, your date of birth and the practice that took it, and a photo can show more of you than you meant to. Up to ten clinics may read a request. Keeping images out of it means nothing in your request points to you.
It also changes nothing about the first quote. Every clinic gives a first estimate from a description, and confirms the plan after it has seen you.
When to share them
- Compare the quotes and ask your questions on dental.holiday.
- Choose the one or two clinics you would really consider.
- Contact them with the details on their quote, and send your X-rays and photos there.
You decide which clinic gets them. From that moment, that clinic is responsible for keeping them safe, as it is for your treatment records.
Getting your X-rays
- Ask your dentist at home for a copy of your latest panoramic X-ray (also called an OPG). Many practices send it by email as an image or PDF.
- A 3D scan (CBCT) is often needed for implants. If you have one, ask for the files, not only pictures of them.
- Older than a year or two? Tell the clinic its date. It may want a new one when you arrive, which is normal.
Taking useful photos
- Good daylight, phone camera without a filter.
- Your smile from the front, teeth together.
- Upper teeth with your head tilted back, lower teeth with your head tilted down.
- Crop out your eyes and the rest of your face if you prefer. Clinics need your teeth and gums.
Sharing them safely
- Use the official email or messaging number on the clinic's quote, not a number someone sent you elsewhere.
- Send only to the clinics you are seriously considering, not to everyone.
- Ask the clinic how it stores patient files and who sees them.
- Keep your own copies: you will want them for your dentist at home and for any warranty claim.
Tip. When the clinic has seen your X-ray, ask it to confirm or update its quote in writing before you book flights.