SOUTHWEST MIAMI-DADE, FLA. (WSVN) - Zoo Miami staff got to the root of the problem with one of their animals.
An endangered Malayan tapir named Gabe underwent a double root canal on Friday.
Experts said Gabe, who is 21, is a senior dealing with damaged teeth, which is common for his age.
Gabe, our 21-year-old Malayan tapir, received a DOUBLE root canal this week! https://t.co/HdLuUEhdvu pic.twitter.com/xUZXNCSfiT
— Zoo Miami (@zoomiami) February 23, 2018
Two of the tapir’s lower canines were broken.
Staff worked with veterinarians to successfully perform the procedure, which is believed to be the first of its kind on this particular species.
Zoo officials said it’s likely Gabe will need additional treatment in the future for periodontal disease affecting his other teeth.
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