HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

Which term describes cells that lead to the formation of enamel?

1. Odontoblasts

2. Cementoblasts

3. Ameloblasts

4. Dentinoblasts

The correct answer is: Ameloblasts

The term that describes cells responsible for the formation of enamel is ameloblasts. Ameloblasts are specialized epithelial cells that secrete enamel, the protective outer layer of teeth. During tooth development, these cells are crucial in the process of enamel formation, which involves the deposition of enamel matrix that mineralizes to become hard enamel. This process is essential for providing the necessary durability and resistance to decay that enamel offers teeth. In contrast, odontoblasts are involved in the formation of dentin, cementoblasts are responsible for cementum formation which anchors teeth to the jaw, and dentinoblasts is a term that often refers to odontoblasts, further emphasizing their role in dentin production. Hence, while these other cell types contribute to various dental structures, it is the ameloblasts specifically that lead to enamel formation.