​​It is the entry point of dentistry where the treatment planning and findings of a patient with oral and dental health problems are determined. It is the branch of dentistry that examines diseases, abnormalities, and developmental defects of the mouth, teeth, gums, and surrounding tissues, researches diagnostic and treatment criteria, and plans the treatment of all patients with oral and dental health issues. This field uses various laboratory methods for definitive diagnosis, as in general medicine. Dental radiology is also one of the sub-branches of this department.

Aim; to identify the source of the patient’s primary complaint. By evaluating the patient’s current condition as a whole, not only existing complaints but also areas that may cause potential problems in the future can be identified, allowing early intervention before symptoms progress. Thus, preventive and protective treatments applied with early diagnosis help prevent more serious problems, making treatment both simpler and more economical. Oral, Dental and Maxillofacial Radiology is the branch of dentistry in which the diagnosis of diseases in the oral, dental and jaw region and the treatments to be performed are determined clinically and radiologically. Radiographs taken from the oral, dental and jaw region aim to detect and evaluate any pathology or anomalies. Based on this information, an individualized treatment plan is prepared, and patients are referred to the specialized clinics where these treatments will be performed. There are different types of X-rays used in dentistry. These are divided into two main groups: 1- Intraoral 2- Extraoral. The most helpful tools in diagnosing intraoral diseases, especially those related to hard tissues such as teeth and jawbone, are dental radiographs, also known as dental films. The two most commonly used types of dental films are periapical films (small films showing 2–3 teeth) and panoramic films (large films showing all upper and lower teeth and the entire jawbone). Digital radiography devices, which are computer-assisted techniques, use very low radiation doses and allow color and light adjustments on the film image, enabling detailed evaluation. In addition, MR and CT imaging may also be requested, especially in implant procedures and the diagnosis of joint disorders.

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1- Definition of symptoms

2- Definition of syndromes

3- Diagnostic methods

4- Identification of laboratory–radiological–pathological applications/methods leading to diagnosis. Oral Diagnosis data are not always limited to dentistry. Some intraoral symptoms may be indicators of systemic–general widespread and serious diseases. For example, gum bleeding may be a sign of a syndrome related to the teeth, but it may also be a symptom of serious diseases such as leukemia. Oral cancers account for up to 5% of all cancers, and early diagnosis requires the dentist to have a strong knowledge of Oral Diagnosis.