Local factors of resistance in the gingival area

Abstract

The local resistance factors of the gingival area are divided into two groups: (1) Physical and biochemical factors; (2) Immunologic and phagocytic activities. The status of the gingival epithelium and connective tissue may be important for the penetrability of the gingival area to bacteria and their products. The gingival pocket fluid and the saliva may be of significance in local resistance both through mechanical rinsing effects and the presence of antibacterial substances such as lysozyme. The oral microbiota by itself contributes to local resistance by bacterial antagonism. A local immune response apparently occurs in the gingiva during the development of periodontitis. The products of this response most likely include antibodies active against components and metabolites of the gingival bacteria. These antibodies may exert protective functions within the tissue as well as in the gingival pocket fluid and the saliva. Moreover, the milieu within the tissue and in the two fluids may promote phagocytosis. The inflammatory response and the possibility of hypersensitivity reactions in the gingiva are discussed in relation to local resistance.