A sloth has had pioneering dental surgery to cure toothache. Rico is believed to be the first sloth to undergo such an operation, which was carried out by a team at Chester Zoo working alongside dental experts from Newcastle University. The two-toed sloth went under the knife after keepers noticed swellings on the sides of its face, with investigations showing two root abscesses. Dentist Fiona Beddis said the university's team had never carried out the procedure on a sloth so it "really was a step into the unknown, so we are all delighted with the successful outcome". Ms Beddis said treating Rico had been a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and it was "a great privilege to treat such a rare and beautiful animal". Rico, who is 25 years old, had a three-hour operation at Chester Zoo's animal care centre, with the infected tissue surrounding two of the sloth's teeth removed. Unlike a typical root canal, the dental experts went in through the bottom of Rico's tooth. Dave Edwards from Newcastle University's School of Dental Sciences said the surgery involved removing the end of the tooth root and "sealing it with special cement". He said it was "very challenging working on a sloth due to their unique anatomy, but also a very rewarding experience". Resident zoo vet, Charlotte Bentley said the teeth that they operated on were "highly specialised and sharp molars". Ms Bentley said sloths had "very different teeth to humans, which makes dentistry challenging". "Whilst we couldn't save both teeth, the great news is that since his procedure, the abscesses have not come back, and his latest X-ray shows his filling is still in place," she added. "It's safe to say that the treatment worked at treating his toothache." Rico, who lives with Tina, a female two-toed sloth, in the zoo's jaguar house, has been regularly monitored since the surgery. Rico's keeper, Brittany Williams, said "it could be slow progress calling Rico for health checks following the surgery as "he goes at his own pace", but she added: "I don't mind working at sloth speed." Two-toed sloths are found across South America, where they face threats including habitat loss, logging and hunting for the illegal wildlife trade. Chester Zoo is part of a conservation breeding programme working to safeguard the species across Europe. Read more stories fromCheshireon the BBC, watchBBC North West Tonight on BBC iPlayerand followBBC North West on X. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230.
Sloth has pioneering surgery to cure toothache
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Chester Zoo Performs First-Ever Dental Surgery on Sloth to Address Toothache"
Bbc News
8.9
TruthLens AI Summary
Rico, a 25-year-old two-toed sloth, has made headlines as he underwent pioneering dental surgery at Chester Zoo, marking a significant milestone in veterinary care for sloths. The surgery was performed by a specialized team from Chester Zoo in collaboration with dental experts from Newcastle University. Rico's condition was identified when keepers observed swelling on his face, leading to the discovery of two root abscesses. Dentist Fiona Beddis, part of the surgical team, expressed that this was the first time such a procedure had been attempted on a sloth, making it a groundbreaking endeavor. The three-hour operation involved the removal of infected tissue around Rico's teeth, and, unlike typical root canal procedures, the dental experts accessed the tooth from the bottom. This unique approach was necessary due to the specialized anatomy of sloth teeth, which differ significantly from those of humans, presenting additional challenges during the surgery.
Following the operation, the team has reported positive outcomes, with no recurrence of the abscesses observed in subsequent check-ups. Charlotte Bentley, the resident zoo veterinarian, noted the specialized and sharp nature of sloth molars, which complicates dental procedures. Although it was not possible to save both teeth, the successful sealing of the remaining tooth root has resulted in Rico being free from toothache. Rico has been under regular observation post-surgery, and his keeper, Brittany Williams, humorously remarked on the slow pace of health checks, a characteristic of sloths. The two-toed sloth species faces numerous threats in their natural habitat, including deforestation and illegal wildlife trade, which has prompted Chester Zoo to engage in a conservation breeding program aimed at safeguarding this unique species across Europe. Rico's surgery not only highlights advancements in veterinary practices but also underscores the importance of conservation efforts for endangered species like the two-toed sloth.
TruthLens AI Analysis
This news story about a sloth undergoing pioneering dental surgery is a heartwarming and unusual piece that highlights advancements in veterinary medicine and cross-disciplinary collaboration. At first glance, it appears to be a straightforward feel-good story, but deeper analysis reveals layers of intent and potential implications.
Collaboration Between Institutions
The involvement of Chester Zoo and Newcastle University’s dental experts suggests a narrative promoting scientific collaboration and innovation. By showcasing a rare procedure, the story emphasizes the expertise of both institutions, potentially boosting their public image and credibility. This could be aimed at attracting funding, students, or visitors, as such stories often serve as indirect marketing.
Public Engagement and Conservation Messaging
The focus on Rico, a 25-year-old sloth, subtly reinforces conservation themes. Sloths are not typically seen as high-profile endangered species, but this humanized story (e.g., "toothache," "successful outcome") may foster empathy and draw attention to wildlife care. The zoo’s role in Rico’s recovery positions it as a leader in animal welfare, which could resonate with environmentally conscious audiences.
Scientific and Educational Value
The detailed description of the procedure—such as the unique approach of entering through the tooth’s bottom and using "special cement"—adds educational value. It demystifies veterinary dentistry while underscoring the challenges of treating exotic animals. This could inspire interest in veterinary sciences or zoology among readers, particularly younger audiences.
Potential Distraction or Soft News Strategy
While the story is genuine, its timing or prominence could serve as "soft news" to divert attention from more contentious issues. However, there’s no overt evidence of manipulation or hidden agendas. The tone is celebratory and apolitical, focusing purely on the achievement.
Manipulation and Reliability Assessment
The article shows no signs of overt manipulation. Its language is factual, quoting experts directly, and the event is verifiable. The absence of sensationalism or loaded terms suggests reliability. However, like all feel-good stories, it may prioritize positivity over critical scrutiny (e.g., not questioning the cost or ethics of such procedures for wild animals).
Target Audience and Broader Implications
This story likely appeals to animal lovers, conservationists, and science enthusiasts. It’s unlikely to impact economics or politics directly, though it could marginally benefit the zoo’s revenue or the university’s reputation. There’s no apparent link to global power dynamics or financial markets.
AI and Narrative Influence
There’s no clear indication of AI-generated content. The prose is straightforward, with expert quotes and technical details that suggest human authorship. If AI were involved, it might have streamlined the writing process but wouldn’t alter the core message, which is inherently non-controversial.
Final Verdict on Reliability
The story is highly credible, with transparent sourcing and expert input. Its purpose seems to be educational and promotional rather than manipulative. The lack of ulterior motives or hidden connections reinforces its trustworthiness.