What cells actively degrade or resorb portions of the primary tooth?

• A. Odontoclasts
• B. Osteoblasts
• C. Ameloblasts
• D. Fibroblasts

Answer: (A)

Resorption of the primary tooth root during shedding is carried out by odontoclasts, specialized multinucleated cells that break down dentin and cementum of the tooth root. These cells arise from precursors similar to macrophages and function much like osteoclasts, but they target dental tissues rather than bone. As odontoclasts progressively resorb the root, the primary tooth loosens and eventually exfoliates to allow the permanent tooth to erupt. Other cells have different roles: osteoblasts build bone, ameloblasts form enamel during tooth development, and fibroblasts contribute to connective tissues but do not actively resorb tooth structure. Hence, the cells actively degrading portions of the primary tooth are odontoclasts.