Pregnancy brings remarkable changes to your body—some expected, some surprising. From nausea and fatigue to swelling and heartburn, your body adapts in many ways to support your growing baby. But did you know pregnancy can also affect your oral health?

A long-standing myth suggests that pregnancy can make your teeth fall out, but is it actually true? Let’s look at what science and dental experts have to say.

Does Pregnancy Cause Tooth Loss?

According to dental professionals, pregnancy itself does not directly cause tooth loss. However, hormonal changes can affect your gums, bones, and oral tissues, which might make your teeth feel looser or more sensitive.

“Pregnancy gives way to hormonal changes that can affect the gums more than the teeth themselves,” explains Dmitry Malayev, DDS, a licensed dentist in New York. “It’s highly unlikely that pregnancy alone would cause teeth to fall out.”

Tooth loss usually occurs when underlying issues—like gum disease, poor oral hygiene, or untreated infections—are already present before or during pregnancy.

Elizabeth Laborde, DDS, a pediatric dentist in Texas, agrees: “Pregnancy doesn’t suddenly cause uncontrollable decay or make teeth fall out. That’s a misconception. Tooth decay develops slowly—over several years—not just during nine months of pregnancy.”

How Tooth Decay Actually Develops

Tooth decay begins when plaque and bacteria build up on teeth and produce acids that wear down the enamel.

  • It can take 4–6 years for decay to penetrate the enamel.

  • Once it reaches the dentin layer, it may take another 1–2 years to cause significant damage or tooth loss.

Common causes of tooth decay or loss include:

  • Poor oral hygiene (not brushing or flossing regularly)

  • Smoking or chewing tobacco

  • Poor diet high in sugar and acids

  • Untreated gum disease (periodontitis)

  • Physical trauma to teeth

  • Infrequent dental visits

“Usually, tooth loss happens because of multiple factors—not just one,” Dr. Malayev adds. “Pregnancy may play a small role, but it’s rarely the main reason.”

Common Oral Health Issues During Pregnancy

Hormonal shifts during pregnancy—especially rising estrogen and progesterone—can significantly affect gum and oral tissue health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 60%–75% of pregnant people experience gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease.

Gingivitis causes redness, swelling, and bleeding gums. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontal disease, which can damage the bone supporting your teeth and potentially lead to tooth loss.

Pregnancy can also cause:

  • Gum tenderness or bleeding

  • Increased plaque buildup

  • A feeling of loose teeth (caused by hormone-related changes in the ligaments and bone)

These changes are usually temporary and resolve after childbirth. However, good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups are key to preventing complications.

Why Your Teeth May Feel Looser

It’s not uncommon for pregnant individuals to notice that their teeth feel slightly “loose.” This occurs because elevated levels of estrogen and progesterone temporarily affect the tissues and ligaments that anchor teeth to the jawbone.

While this can feel unsettling, it does not lead to actual tooth loss in healthy gums. Once hormone levels return to normal after delivery, your teeth will typically feel stable again.

Increased Risk of Cavities During Pregnancy

The American Dental Association (ADA) notes that pregnancy increases the risk of tooth decay and cavities, but not because of pregnancy itself. Instead, it’s due to factors such as:

  • Morning sickness, which exposes teeth to stomach acid

  • Changes in eating habits, such as frequent snacking or craving sugary foods

  • Fatigue or nausea, which can lead to skipping brushing or flossing

“The increased amount of acid in the mouth can erode enamel, especially if you brush right after vomiting,” says Lisa Creaven, DDS, a cosmetic dentist. “Instead, rinse with water or a fluoride mouthwash first.”

How To Care for Your Teeth During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is not a time to skip the dentist—it’s a time to be even more proactive. Here’s how to protect your oral health:

Maintain daily oral hygiene:

  • Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.

  • Floss once daily to remove plaque.

  • Rinse with fluoride mouthwash to strengthen enamel.

If you experience morning sickness:

  • Avoid brushing immediately after vomiting.

  • Rinse your mouth with water or fluoride rinse first.

  • Wait 30 minutes before brushing to prevent enamel erosion.

Watch your diet:

  • Limit sugary foods and acidic drinks.

  • Eat calcium-rich foods like yogurt, milk, and leafy greens to strengthen teeth.

  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Visit your dentist:

  • Schedule at least one dental checkup during pregnancy.

  • Inform your dentist that you’re pregnant so they can adjust any treatments or X-rays safely.

When To See a Dentist

Contact your dentist if you notice any of the following during pregnancy:

  • Persistent gum bleeding or swelling

  • Tooth pain or sensitivity

  • Loose or shifting teeth

  • Bad breath or unusual taste

  • Mouth sores or infections

Early dental care not only keeps your teeth healthy but also helps prevent complications that could affect your overall pregnancy health.

A Quick Review

Pregnancy does not cause teeth to fall out, but hormonal changes can make gums more sensitive and increase the risk of gingivitis or cavities. Most issues arise from poor oral hygiene or untreated gum disease, not from pregnancy itself.

Maintaining regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits will help keep your smile healthy before, during, and after pregnancy.

Remember—healthy gums mean a healthier pregnancy.