Do I need an X-ray?
ra-dio-gra-FI-a — five syllables. Stress on fourth syllable. 'Radio-' prefix indicates radiation.
The dentist may suggest an X-ray. You can ask proactively or to confirm why it is needed before agreeing.
'Devo fare' (do I have to do / do I need to have) uses 'dovere'. 'Una radiografia' is an X-ray. Common dental X-rays in Italy: 'endorale' (bite-wing, individual tooth), 'panoramica' (OPG, full mouth), 'cefalometrica' (full skull, used in orthodontics). In Italy, a referral from the dentist is needed for clinical X-rays — they are ordered as needed.
Ha bisogno di una panoramica.
You need a panoramic X-ray.
The OPG/panoramic shows all teeth — standard for new patients
La radiografia è inclusa nella visita?
Is the X-ray included in the visit?
Check cost — X-rays are often billed separately in Italy
Ho già fatto una radiografia recentemente.
I have already had an X-ray recently.
Bring recent X-rays to avoid unnecessary radiation
Dental X-rays in Italy use digital sensors ('radiografia digitale') which reduce radiation exposure by up to 90% compared to traditional film. Italian dental studios must comply with strict radiation safety regulations ('normativa radioprotezionistica'). The dentist or assistant must have a radioprotection qualification ('qualifica in radioprotezione'). Pregnant women should inform the dentist and usually defer non-urgent X-rays.