Which type of dentin is primarily responsible for the repair of damaged teeth?

Tertiary dentin is primarily responsible for the repair of damaged teeth. This type of dentin is produced in response to stimuli such as caries, tooth wear, or trauma. When the tooth is subjected to harmful factors, odontoblasts (the cells that produce dentin) increase their activity and create tertiary dentin as a protective mechanism. This process not only enhances the tooth's structural integrity but also helps to shield the pulp from further damage and infection.

In contrast, primary dentin forms as the tooth develops and establishes the primary structure, while secondary dentin is created gradually throughout the life of the tooth, but does not play a significant role in the repair process. Therefore, tertiary dentin specifically functions to address damage and maintain the health of the tooth, making it crucial in clinical situations where repair is necessary.