Daring dentistry

No one likes going to the dentist but if left tooth problems can become worse and cause further difficulties. In wildlife this is more serious as it effects their survival if it causes infection or they are unable to eat.  A badger was brought in by an RSPCA Inspector for abnormal behavior, he had been found dazed and ataxic i.e. wobbly on his feet.  He was placed in a pen for observation overnight and allowed to settle and rest.  The following day a general anesthetic was given by the vet, which enabled the vet to carry out a proper examination and x-ray.  No fractures were found but there was an infection in his nose which led to the vet finding a major tooth problem. A closer look revealed his upper left canine tooth was cracked and the root had been left exposed, this had lead to a nasty tooth abscess- no wonder he felt rotten!

Although quite an extensive operation the missing canine would not make much of a difference to the badger once back in the wild.  If the tooth was left it may lead to further infection, a lot of pain and potentially death.  My work in the hospital was almost complete so I was given the chance to observe the procedure, which was fascinating. It is very rare to see dentistry on a badger.  It gave me the chance to really see how large badgers canine are and the extent of the damage.

Captivity is always stressful for wildlife so the team are always looking to return our animals, back to the wild as quickly as possible, as soon as they are fit and healthy.  Therefore after a few days of recovery he was given a long lasting antibiotic and quickly released back to where he came from - minus the tooth and no visit from the tooth fairy!

                                                   

   Sponsors of Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre and Cattery