Endodontics · single question
What type of cell is responsible for internal root resorption?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Odontoclast
✓ C) Odontoclast is correct.
Odontoclasts (similar to osteoclasts but acting on dental hard tissues) are the cells responsible for resorption of dentin and cementum. In internal root resorption, odontoclasts within the pulp tissue resorb the dentinal walls from the inside out, creating an expanding radiolucent area. This is distinguished from external resorption where cells act from outside the tooth. Odontoclasts are multinucleated giant cells derived from monocyte/macrophage lineage.
Odontoclasts (similar to osteoclasts but acting on dental hard tissues) are the cells responsible for resorption of dentin and cementum. In internal root resorption, odontoclasts within the pulp tissue resorb the dentinal walls from the inside out, creating an expanding radiolucent area. This is distinguished from external resorption where cells act from outside the tooth. Odontoclasts are multinucleated giant cells derived from monocyte/macrophage lineage.
- A. Defensible but less precise. Osteoclasts and odontoclasts are functionally and morphologically near-identical; many texts use the terms interchangeably. When both appear as options, odontoclast is the more specific answer for dental hard tissue.
- B. Incorrect. Osteoblasts form bone rather than resorb it.
- C. Correct. Internal resorption is resorption of DENTIN from within the canal, carried out by odontoclasts — multinucleated giant cells derived from the same monocyte–macrophage lineage as osteoclasts but acting on dental hard tissue.
- D. Incorrect. Fibroblasts produce collagen and connective tissue matrix.
Note: 📌 The recall source highlighted both osteoclast and odontoclast. When both are offered, choose ODONTOCLAST for resorption of tooth structure. Internal resorption also requires vital, inflamed pulp tissue apical to the lesion.