A two-toed sloth named Rico has undergone groundbreaking dental surgery to treat a severe toothache. This is believed to be the first time such a procedure has been performed on a sloth.
The operation took place at Chester Zoo, where veterinary staff worked closely with dental experts from Newcastle University. Keepers noticed swelling on Rico’s face, and further tests revealed two root abscesses.
Dentist Fiona Beddis said the team had never done this surgery on a sloth before. “It was a step into the unknown,” she said. “We are all delighted with the successful outcome.” Beddis added that treating Rico was a unique and special opportunity.
Rico, 25 years old, had a three-hour operation at the zoo’s animal care centre. The infected tissue around two of his teeth was removed. Instead of a typical root canal, the dental team accessed the tooth from below. Newcastle University’s Dave Edwards explained that they removed the end of the tooth root and sealed it with special cement.
He said working on a sloth was very challenging because of their unusual anatomy, but also very rewarding. Chester Zoo’s resident vet, Charlotte Bentley, noted that sloths have sharp, highly specialized molars, which makes dental treatment difficult.
“We couldn’t save both teeth, but the good news is the abscesses have not returned,” Bentley said. “The latest X-ray shows the filling is still in place. The treatment worked to relieve Rico’s toothache.”
Rico shares the zoo’s jaguar house with Tina, another two-toed sloth, and has been closely monitored since the surgery. Keeper Brittany Williams said health checks can be slow because “Rico goes at his own pace,” but she doesn’t mind working at “sloth speed.”
Two-toed sloths live throughout South America. They face threats from habitat loss, logging, and illegal wildlife trade. Chester Zoo is part of a conservation breeding program to help protect this species across Europe.
