Dentinoblasts are specialized cells found in the dental pulp of teeth. They are responsible for the formation of dentin, a hard tissue that makes up the bulk of a tooth beneath the enamel. Dentinoblasts produce and secrete the organic matrix of dentin, which is later mineralized to provide strength and structure to the tooth. These cells originate from neural crest cells during tooth development and have a unique shape, resembling a long, slender process. Dentinoblasts play a crucial role in the tooth's response to injury or decay by producing more dentin to protect the pulp and maintain tooth integrity.