Sun Bear Dental Case Workshop

27/8/2019

Text and Photos by Chiew Lin May


Each rescued sun bear that has arrived at BSBCC were previously kept locked in cages and would try to bite the bars to find their way out; this has caused them to suffer from severe dental disease. Inappropriate diet in the pet trade can also lead to long term dental damage. Dental disease is an often overlooked threat to the comfort and health of bears.

BSBCC organised a workshop about the “Sun Bear Dental Case” on 20-23 Aug 2019. It was a real honour and privilege to have amazing guests from Singapore Zoo, Dr. Ali Anwar and Dr. Serena Oh from Wildlife Asia Veterinary Services (WAVES) came to share their experiences with veterinarians and us about how to detect and treat dental problems in the bears. The workshop focused on animal dental anatomy, dental charts, dental radiography techniques, and periodontal diseases.
Three sun bears: Diana, Logan, and Kudat were chosen to receive treatment for dental radiography and dental extraction. Through receiving these dental care treatments, it will improve the wellbeing and health of the bear.

Sun bear's dental condition.

BSBCC organised a workshop about the “Sun Bear Dental Case”. The workshop focused on animal dental anatomy, dental charts, dental radiography techniques, and periodontal diseases.

It was a real honour and privilege to have amazing guests from Singapore Zoo, Dr. Ali Anwar and Dr. Serena Oh from Wildlife Asia Veterinary Services (WAVES) came to share their experiences with veterinarians and us about how to detect and treat dental problems in the bears.

Before the dental treatment start, each sun bear must be anesthetized.

Oral examination by Dr. Anwar and Dr.Serena.

Vets will monitor the sun bear's heart and respiratory rate throughout the anesthetic.

Dr.Boon was checking Logan's teeth condition.

Dental treatment on one year old Logan: Dental extraction of deciduous tooth.

Inappropriate diet in the pet trade can also lead to long term dental damage. An 11 years old male bear, Kudat was found to have numerous tooth caries. He needs to receive vital dental treatment.

A dental radiograph is vital to get a clearer picture of what is happening below the bear’s gumline.

Radiographs are vital to get a clearer picture of what is happening below the bear’s gumline.

Thank you Dr. Anwar and Dr. Serena, we will make sure their health continues to improve and they are able to enjoy their nutritious food. See you again!