In zero gravity, even something as simple as brushing your teeth becomes a science experiment. Astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) keep up with oral hygiene — just a little differently than we do on Earth.
🧼 The Space Toothbrushing Routine
- Use a standard toothbrush — nothing fancy required
- Apply a small amount of non-foaming toothpaste
- Brush carefully (without letting droplets float away)
- Swallow or spit into a cloth — there’s no sink in space!
🚫 Why It’s Different
- Water doesn’t flow — it floats, so rinsing and spitting are nearly impossible
- Astronauts use just a small amount of water to wet the brush, then drink the residue or wipe their mouths clean
✅ Why Oral Hygiene Still Matters in Space
- Food particles can still get stuck between teeth
- Bacteria can thrive in a closed space environment
- Gum infections or toothaches in orbit? Not ideal!
Space or Earth, Good Habits Matter
Even astronauts don’t skip brushing — and neither should you!
👉 Book your next cleaning and keep your feet (and smile) grounded.