- The majority of the cellular population in the oral epithelium is constituted by keratinocytes.
- These cells play a crucial role in forming the protective barrier of the oral mucosa.

- Keratinocytes are specialized epithelial cells responsible for producing keratin, a fibrous protein that helps protect underlying tissues from mechanical stress, pathogens, and chemical damage.
- They are tightly packed and undergo a process of differentiation as they move from the basal layer to the surface, eventually forming the outermost layer of the epithelium.

In contrast, other cell types such as melanocytes, Langerhans cells, and Merkel cells exist in smaller numbers and serve different functions:
- Melanocytes produce melanin pigment responsible for coloration but represent only a minor fraction of the population.
- Langerhans cells are part of the immune system and act as antigen-presenting cells.
- Merkel cells are involved in sensory reception and are sparse within the oral mucosa.

Thus, the keratinocytes are the predominant cell type, ensuring the integrity and function of the oral epithelial barrier.