Anatomy & Histology · single question
Which cells are primarily responsible for physiologic root resorption of primary teeth?
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Correct answer: C. Odontoclasts (a type of osteoclast)
Root resorption of primary teeth is carried out by odontoclasts (morphologically similar to osteoclasts) — multinucleated giant cells that resorb root dentin and cementum.
- A. Fibroblasts synthesize collagen and extracellular matrix components but are not involved in hard tissue resorption.
- B. Odontoblasts form dentin throughout life but do not resorb it — they are formative, not resorptive.
- C. CORRECT. Odontoclasts (dentinoclasts) are the cells responsible for resorbing root dentin and cementum during physiologic root resorption of primary teeth. They are functionally and morphologically equivalent to osteoclasts.
- D. Osteoblasts are bone-forming cells — they deposit new bone matrix and do not resorb hard tissues.
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