Primates' tiny teeth treated at London Zoo

Endangered pygmy slow loris Ernest and black-capped squirrel monkey Nuka are now recovering, the zoo says

Two tiny primates at London Zoo are recovering after receiving dental treatment.

Endangered pygmy slow loris Ernest and black-capped squirrel monkey Nuka were brought to the zoo's veterinary hospital for dental operations, after previous check-ups identified possible gum infections.

London Zoo veterinarian Stefan Saverimuttu said: "Ernest and Nuka were star patients. Both of their dental operations went really well."

It comes as the Regent's Park zoo holds its Vets In Action week during half term, where as part of their ticket children have the chance to learn more about care for animals rescued from the illegal wildlife trade and to practise their own vet skills.

Nuka is "back to his usual antics" after treatment

The zoo said specialist veterinary dentist Dr Rachel Perry was called in to help ensure the best care for the animals, and Ernest and Nuka were each given a general anaesthetic for their dental exams, which allowed vets to carry out a full health check while the dentists worked.

Following exams and X-rays, the team of vets got to the bottom of the problem: a broken tooth had been lurking beneath Ernest's gum, causing swelling, and two of Nuka's teeth – a canine and incisor – needed extracting.

After they removed the problematic teeth the vets stitched up Ernest's and Nuka's gums, and they were eventually returned to their keepers.

They have been given anti-inflammatory medicine after their procedures and are being closely monitored.

After Ernest had an x-ray and exam, vets discovered a broken tooth was causing swelling

Mr Saverimuttu said: "Ernest is doing much better now that the troublesome tooth has been removed.

"Nuka was a bit wobbly after his anaesthesia, but within minutes he was back to his usual antics.

"He's been opting for softer foods while his mouth heals, which isn't too much of a hardship for him — he's always had a soft spot for softer foods."

He added that since his operation Ernest had been able to go into a new part of his habitat to join a mate.

"The two have been given a breeding recommendation, which means they can hopefully play a vital role in the European breeding programme to support this endangered species."