DEFB1 5′UTR polymorphisms were genotyped in Italian healthy subjects and Oral Lichen Planus (OLP) patients. HBD-1 salivary concentration was measured and was significanlty different in Italian healthy subjects and OLP patients. DEFB1 − genotypes were correlated with the hBD-1 salivary concentration. The −52 G > A SNP correlated with hBD-1 salivary concentration in both healthy subjects and OLP patients. The −44C > G SNP correlated with hBD-1 salivary concentration in OLP patients.