Aerospace Dentistry: Challenges and Care for Astronauts

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Space missions are a challenge for dentistry, since oral and dental tissues are directly affected by microgravity, cosmic radiation, and the isolation of astronauts. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the main obstacles faced during space expeditions, highlighting the essential preventive strategies to ensure the oral health of crew members on short- and long-duration flights. METHODOLOGY: This study consists of the analysis of articles published between 2009 and 2024 on scientific platforms, addressing the physiological and dental modifications in the space environment. DISCUSSION: Microgravity causes a reduction in bone density, changes in salivary flow and composition, imbalance of the oral microbiome, atrophy of masticatory muscles, temporomandibular disorders, and immunological alterations, contributing to the development of dental caries, periodontal diseases, oral cancer, and orofacial pain. Dental emergencies during space missions are rare; however, the risk increases in long-duration flights. The most common emergencies include crown dislodgement, dental fractures, and pulp exposure. To mitigate these issues, astronauts receive basic training in dental management, have access to procedure kits, and are remotely monitored through teledentistry. CONCLUSION: Preventive measures have proven effective in maintaining oral health during space missions, especially pre-flight dental evaluations. When interventions are necessary, they are planned and completed up to three months before the mission. Furthermore, technological advances offer solutions for in-flight dental emergencies, including 3D printing for crown fabrication and remote diagnostic programs, contributing to the success of interplanetary missions.
Keywords: Space missions; Astronauts; Oral emergencies.