Who is responsible for the care of patients in a dental healthcare team?

The dentist is ultimately responsible for the care of patients within a dental healthcare team. This role encompasses diagnosing oral health conditions, developing treatment plans, and performing dental procedures. As the lead healthcare provider, the dentist ensures that all care delivered by the team aligns with the best practices and meets the patient's needs.

While dental assistants, hygienists, and orthodontists play vital roles in supporting patient care—such as assisting in procedures, providing preventive care, or focusing on orthodontic treatment—the overseeing responsibility and liability for patient outcomes rest with the dentist. This hierarchical structure is essential for maintaining high standards of care and coordinated treatment within the dental practice.