Watch FIFA World Cup 2026™

LIVE, FREE and EXCLUSIVE

'Nangingilo, sungki, pasta': Some Filipino dental terms that are lost in Aussie English translation

At the dentist

In this Usap Tayo episode, we discuss some Filipino dental jargon that's often lost in translation to Australian English, leading to miscommunication during check-ups.


Published

By Maridel Martinez, Claudette Centeno

Source: SBS



Share this with family and friends


In this Usap Tayo episode, we discuss some Filipino dental jargon that's often lost in translation to Australian English, leading to miscommunication during check-ups.


Key Points

  • Lost in Translation: Terms like nangingilo (sensitive teeth), pasta (filling), and pustiso (dentures) can be unfamiliar or used differently in Australian dental clinics.
  • Cultural Disconnect: Phrases such as may butas ang ngipin (has a cavity) or magpapabunot (will have a tooth pulled) are rarely used in the same way by Aussie dentists.
  • Health Impacts: Misunderstandings of terms like namamaga ang gilagid (swollen gums) or singaw (mouth ulcer) can delay treatment and affect oral health outcomes.

📢 Where to Catch SBS Filipino

🔊 On Air – Tune in to SBS Filipino on radio stations across Australia and website live stream, and TV Channel 302 from 10 AM to 11 AM AEST daily.

📲 Catch up episodes and stories – Visit sbs.com.au/filipino or stream on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Youtube Podcasts, and SBS Audio app.

📣 Follow Us on Social Media – Stay updated by following us on Facebook and Instagram.


Latest podcast episodes

Follow SBS Filipino

Download our apps

Listen to our podcasts

Get the latest with our exclusive in-language podcasts on your favourite podcast apps.

Watch on SBS

SBS News in Filipino

Watch it onDemand

Watch now