Going to the dentist can be uncomfortable, especially when there's a language barrier. For those living in Italy or visiting, understanding the most common terms used in a dental office can avoid misunderstandings and make the experience easier.
During a check-up visit (routine consultation), the dentist (dentist) may ask: “Può aprire la bocca?” (can you open your mouth?). You might get a little mouthwash (mouthwash) and be instructed to sciaquarti la bocca (rinse mouth) and put it down (spit it out).
A assistant (auxiliary) usually helps with these first steps. Then the professional examines the teeth (teeth) and the gums (gums), looking for signs of caries (cavities). It may be necessary rimuovere la placca (remove plaque) during a teeth cleaning (dental cleaning).
If necessary, you can hear: “Ruoti la testa verso di me” (turn your head towards me). In simple cases, the dentist may recommend more use of dental floss (dental floss), changing the brush (toothbrush) or toothpaste (toothpaste).
Law 74/2025 is being challenged in the Court of Justice of the European Union. For thousands of descendants, the next step depends on understanding how the new rule has affected each case.
Your case may still have a legal outcome.
ANALYZE MY CASEIf there are more serious problems, you may need to do a bone scan (X-ray) or a filling (filling). In more severe cases, treatment may involve a crown (dental crown), a dental extraction (extraction) or a devitalization (root canal treatment).
for those who have denti storti (crooked teeth) or crowded (crowded teeth), it may be advisable to use a device (orthodontic appliance). Invasive procedures often require local anesthesia (local anesthesia).
In Italy, public dental services are limited and generally paid for by the patient. Most Italians resort to private care to avoid long lines and waits. At the end of treatment, it is common for a payment (payment) directly at the office.
Other useful terms:
- Waiting room: Waiting room
- Chew: to chew
- Molari, premolars, canines, incisors: types of teeth
- Dente del giudizio: wisdom tooth
- Latte teeth: baby teeth
- Tartar: tartar
- Bad breath: bad breath
- Toothache: toothache
- Get up: dental prosthesis
- Whitening: whitening
Did you miss any terms? Comment below!
