During tooth development, enamel is formed by which type of cells?

Enamel is formed by specialized cells known as ameloblasts. These cells are responsible for producing the enamel matrix and play a crucial role during the development of teeth. Ameloblasts are present during the early stages of tooth formation, specifically in the enamel organ, and they secrete enamel proteins that mineralize to form the hard tissue of the tooth. This process happens primarily in the bell stage of tooth development.

In contrast, osteoblasts are responsible for the formation of bone, not enamel. Cementoblasts are involved in forming cementum, which is the tissue that covers the roots of teeth, while chondrocytes are responsible for the formation of cartilage. Understanding the specific functions of these different cell types highlights why ameloblasts are the correct answer when it comes to enamel formation.