Wisdom Teeth Removal Becomes Prerequisite For Space Travel

Space travel demands rigorous preparation, and dental health has now emerged as a surprising but crucial factor. Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, the first from the country to reach the International Space Station, disclosed that he had two wisdom teeth extracted before his mission. The reason: astronauts cannot perform dental surgery in space, making preventive measures essential.  

Key highlights from the announcement include  

• Shubhanshu Shukla explained that dental surgery is impossible aboard spacecraft, so astronauts must ensure no potential dental issues before launch.  
• Wisdom teeth, often prone to infection or impaction, are removed as a precautionary step to avoid emergencies in orbit.  
• Shukla underwent the procedure before joining the Axiom-4 mission, supported by ISRO and NASA, earlier in 2025.  
• He emphasized that dental health is as important as physical fitness, since even minor issues can escalate in space’s confined environment.  
• Other shortlisted astronauts for India’s Gaganyaan mission, including Group Captains Prasanth Nair and Angad Pratap, also highlighted the importance of preventive medical checks.  
• Experts note that space missions require astronauts to be self-reliant in handling medical emergencies, but dental procedures remain impossible without specialized equipment.  
• The revelation underscores the meticulous preparation astronauts undergo, covering not just physical training but also preventive healthcare.  
• Social media and public discussions have sparked curiosity, with many surprised at the role of dental health in space readiness.  

This development highlights the broader reality of human spaceflight: every aspect of health, even dental, must be optimized before leaving Earth. As India prepares for its Gaganyaan mission, such insights shed light on the hidden challenges of space travel and the extraordinary measures taken to ensure astronaut safety.  

Sources: Tribune India, ABP Live, The Print, India Today, Economic Times, Mathrubhumi