Saliva and Serum Levels of B‐Cell Activating Factors and Tumor Necrosis Factor‐α in Patients With Periodontitis

Abstract

Within the limits of this study, it may be suggested that elevated salivary and serum TNF-α, APRIL, and BAFF in patients with periodontitis may contribute to the dominance of B cells in periodontitis lesions. Moreover, higher levels in healthy smokers than non-smoking counterparts may play a role in detrimental effects of smoking on periodontal tissues.