Dentists tackle aardvark’s toothache

By Mark Boggis and Faye Mayern

A veterinary dentist had to tackle getting around a 16-year-old aardvark's long nose to find out why she was having mouth trouble.

The female mammal, named Boo, underwent the dental procedure after her keepers discovered she had a small lump on her jawline and was struggling to eat.

Boo, from zoo Africa Alive in Lowestoft, Suffolk, was anesthetized and a dentist had to create a surgical site to investigate due to her long snout.

It was discovered Boo's troublesome lower cheek tooth had already been shed and the wound was patched up.

It is now hoped she'll be back to her usual 'bouncy' self in no time.

Vet Elliot Simpson Brown said: "Boo was anesthetized today to investigate a swelling under her jaw, which, based on previous radiographs obtained of Boo's head, had confirmed a dental issue with a lower cheek tooth.

"The veterinary dentist - due to the long nature of aardvarks' noses - approached via a surgical approach to explore, and confirmed that the problematic tooth had indeed already shed.

"The pocket was investigated and flushed, and the small surgical site closed.

"We are wishing Boo a speedy recovery from this procedure.

"Given a thorough review of her other teeth, have no other concerns or cause to believe that we can't now get her comfort levels and general health back to her usual bouncy self."

Zoe​​​​ Nunn, animal manager at the park, said: "It was noticed by her keepers that she had been having a little difficulty eating on the left side of her mouth and she also had a lump appear.

"So we had the vet come out, he had a look and we're now having to perform a dental on her.

"She has bred successfully as part of a breeding program so we've actually had two youngsters from her.

"We are pleased with how the procedure went and Boo is being closely monitored as she come round from the anesthetic."