Odontoblasts are specialized cells located in the dental pulp of teeth. They play a crucial role in the formation of dentin, the hard tissue that makes up the bulk of a tooth beneath the enamel. These cells are responsible for producing and maintaining the dentin matrix, which provides structural support and protection for the tooth. In addition to their role in dentin formation, odontoblasts also help in the response to dental injuries. When a tooth is damaged, these cells can become activated to produce more dentin, a process known as dentinogenesis. This ability to regenerate dentin helps protect the tooth from further decay and damage.