Which cell type is the primary bone-forming cell responsible for new bone production during the healing of a dental extraction socket?

Osteoblasts are the primary bone-forming cells that synthesize and deposit new bone matrix (osteoid) during the healing of an extraction socket. They differentiate from undifferentiated mesenchymal stem cells (osteoprogenitor cells) present in the bone marrow and periosteum. In socket healing: after clot formation and inflammation, granulation tissue forms, then woven bone is deposited by osteoblasts (beginning around week 2-3), which is progressively remodeled into lamellar bone. Osteoclasts resorb existing bone and play a role in remodeling but do not form new bone. Fibroblasts produce collagen and soft connective tissue, which is important in wound healing but precedes bone formation.