Which cells are primarily responsible for alveolar bone resorption during periodontal disease?

Osteoclasts are large, multinucleated cells derived from the monocyte/macrophage lineage that resorb mineralized bone through secretion of acid (carbonic anhydrase creates acidic environment via proton pumps) and proteolytic enzymes (cathepsin K, matrix metalloproteinases). In periodontal disease, inflammatory mediators (IL-1, TNF-alpha, RANKL) stimulate osteoclast differentiation and activity, leading to alveolar bone destruction. Osteoclasts also participate in resorption of the root surface (as odontoclasts). Note: Q51 asked about odontoclasts (cementum/dentin resorption), while this question specifically asks about bone resorption (osteoclasts).