When the accuracy of a DNS cache is in question, `dig +trace` tends to be the recommended way of determining the authoritative answer for an internet facing DNS record. This seems to be particularly useful when also paired with `+additional`, which also shows the glue records.

Occasionally there seems to be some disagreement on this point -- some people say that it relies on the local resolver to look up the IP addresses of the intermediate nameservers, but the command output offers no indication that this is happening beyond the initial list of root nameservers. It seems logical to assume that this wouldn't be the case if the purpose of `+trace` is to start at the root servers and trace your way down. (at least if you have the right list of root nameservers)

Does `dig +trace` really use the local resolver for anything past the root nameservers?