09. If we live in a space colony or stay in a space hotel, will there be any fluoride in the water we drink to help protect our teeth? (JB) For long duration missions, good tooth care is really important. (A K2S Question)

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Prevention of dental cavities includes the use of fluoride rinses, appropriate diet, brushing, and flossing—most recommendations are to brush twice a day and floss once a day. The fluoride rinses could take the place of fluoride in the water. It would also be possible to use antibacterial rinses, which can stop the bacteria that cause cavities. Response credit to Dr. Jay Buckley (JB) Citation for Dr. Buckey's (JB) responses: Buckey, JC. Long duration flight medical planning: Medical care on the way to the Moon and Mars. In: Space Physiology, Oxford University Press, New York, New York, 2006 Response credit to Dr. John Hatcher (JH) SANITATION


Answer provided by Dr. Jay C. Buckey, Jr. & Dr. John Hatcher


Image:K2S logosmall.jpg Question and Answer extracted from the book Kids to Space - by Lonnie Schorer