[Human gingival immunocompetent cells in the norm and in inflammatory periodontal diseases].

The review describes characteristics of gingival immuno-competent cells (lymphocytes, macrophages, dendritic antigen-presenting and plasma cells), forming a unified system and interacting with each other in physiological conditions and in inflammatory processes. The role of microbial factors and immunocompetent cell dysfunction in the development of destructive changes in periodontal tissues is analyzed. Gingival mast cell, fibroblast and epitheliocyte participation in immune reactions is discussed.