Ameloblast

Ameloblasts are short-lived enamel-producing cells originating from the dental epithelium. They regulate the intricate process of amelogenesis with great precision. During enamel formation, 50% of the ameloblasts commit apoptosis; the remaining half at the end of the process, making it impossible for the body to regenerate or repair the damaged enamel of an erupted tooth. Their activity is regulated by circadian rhythm and defects in the production of healthy ameloblasts result in quantitative or qualitative defects in tooth enamel.