Gum Disease is a Major Cause of Strokes

Evidence presented at the 89th International Association for Dental Research in San Diego suggests that gum disease carries a higher risk of causing a stroke than diabetes and almost as much risk as high blood pressure.

I haven't read the research yet so I'm not clear on the mechanisms involved but the claim aseems to be substantiated. It appears that good oral hygiene is about not losing a lot more than just your teeth.