Astronaut Sophie Adenot Demonstrates Oral Hygiene on ISS

Astronaut Sophie Adenot demonstrated the process of brushing teeth aboard the International Space Station to show how oral hygiene works in microgravity.

Maintaining basic hygiene in space is a critical part of long-term astronaut health and psychological well-being. Because liquids do not behave normally in orbit, standard grooming habits require specialized techniques to prevent debris from floating into sensitive equipment or the astronauts' eyes.

Adenot filmed the demonstration from the space station, which orbits approximately 400 km ^[1] above Earth. The video was produced in response to a surge of public interest following a previous demonstration she shared regarding hair washing.

"The video in which I wash my hair sparked a lot of questions… so here's the answer to how astronauts brush their teeth in space!" Adenot said.

In the demonstration, Adenot explained the specific steps required to clean teeth without the benefit of a sink or running water. In the microgravity environment of the ISS, toothpaste and water do not flow downward, meaning astronauts cannot spit into a basin as they would on Earth. Instead, the process involves managing the toothpaste and residue carefully to ensure it remains contained.

This educational outreach is part of a broader effort by the European Space Agency to humanize the experience of living in orbit. By showing the mundane aspects of daily life, such as dental care, the agency provides a glimpse into the logistical challenges of extraterrestrial habitation.

Adenot's approach emphasizes the adaptability required for crew members. The shift from terrestrial habits to orbital routines is a necessary adjustment for every astronaut spending months away from Earth's gravity.