(Miami, FL) — Even zoo animals have to go to the dentist. Veterinarians at Zoo Miami operated on one of its largest patients this week. A Malayan Tapir named Gabe was immobilized so that he could receive a double root canal on two broken lower canine teeth. Zoo Miami officials say they successfully cleaned out the infection, performed the root canals, and sealed the teeth. They say the fractured teeth don’t need further work, but Gabe may need follow-up treatment for periodontal disease affecting other teeth.
Gabe is 21-years-old and has a life expectancy of about 30-years. He’s approaching “senior citizen” status and damaged teeth aren’t uncommon. In the wild, experts say dental issues are very painful and can lead to serious infection or even death. The Malayan Tapir is considered an endangered species and is the largest of five tapir species. They’re found in the southern parts of Sumatra, Thailand, Myanmar and the Malaysian peninsula.
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Jared Schaefer/wm
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