Who is responsible for diagnosing issues related to dental health?

The dentist is primarily responsible for diagnosing issues related to dental health. Dentists perform comprehensive examinations of the mouth, teeth, gums, and associated structures to identify any dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues. They have the training and expertise to interpret diagnostic images, conduct tests, and evaluate a patient's dental status.

While other specialists, such as orthodontists, periodontists, and endodontists, focus on specific areas within dental care (such as teeth alignment, gum health, and root canal therapy respectively), the general dentist serves as the first line of diagnosis and treatment for overall dental health. This foundational role is critical in determining the necessary treatment referrals or procedures that may need to follow based on the specific conditions diagnosed.