Pathology · single question
Which hormone most directly affects tooth eruption timing?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Parathyroid hormone (PTH)
Parathyroid hormone (PTH) regulates calcium metabolism and bone remodeling — both essential for tooth eruption. PTH stimulates osteoclasts, which resorb bone ahead of the erupting tooth. Abnormal PTH levels (hypo- or hyperparathyroidism) can delay or alter eruption timing.
- A. ❌ Insulin regulates blood glucose; not the primary hormonal influence on tooth eruption timing.
- B. ✅ PTH regulates calcium/bone metabolism and directly influences the bone resorption needed for tooth eruption.
- C. ❌ Cortisol can delay eruption at high levels but is not the primary hormone affecting eruption.
- D. ❌ Estrogen affects bone density but is not the primary hormone for eruption timing.