Abstract: Links between periodontal diseases and atherosclerosis have been well documented by epidemiological studies. Recently, research has shifted to elucidating the biologic mechanism for a causal relationship. However, it
is still not clear whether periodontopathic pathogens, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis（P.gingivalis）, are truly etiologic agents or ubiquitous bystanders. This article reviewed the current understanding about the biological interactions
between P.gingivalis and atherosclerosis and the biological plausibility of periodontitis as a potential risk factor for cardiovascular disease.