The role of the host response in periodontal disease progression: implications for future treatment strategies.

In this paper, we review the relevant aspects of host responses in periodontal diseases as we understand them today. Discussion will focus on neutrophil function, lymphocytes and the immune response, macrophage function, cytokines and complement, fibroblasts and growth factors, and regeneration. Recent literature and concepts will be presented with an emphasis on future directions and application to treatment regimens.