INBDE (Integrated National Board Dental Examination) Practice Exam

Into what do the cells of the dental papilla differentiate?

1. Odontoblasts

2. Ameloblasts

3. Cementoblasts

4. Fibroblasts

The correct answer is: Odontoblasts

The cells of the dental papilla are specialized cells that play a crucial role in the formation of teeth. These cells differentiate, or mature, into different types of cells that are responsible for specific functions in the tooth development process. A) Odontoblasts are cells that form the dentin, which is the hard, mineralized tissue that makes up the bulk of the tooth. B) Ameloblasts are cells that form the enamel, which is the hard, outer layer of the tooth. C) Cementoblasts are cells that form the cementum, which is the hard, mineralized tissue that covers the tooth root. D) Fibroblasts, on the other hand, are not involved in tooth development and are responsible for producing and organizing the collagen fibers in the dental pulp. Therefore, A) Odontoblasts are the correct answer as they are responsible for the formation of one of the most important components of the tooth, the dentin. The other options are incorrect as they do not relate to the specific role of the cells of the dental papilla.