Koala ‘Dindi’ tucks into eucalyptus leaves after a trip to the dentist

It was discovered during a routine health check last month that 11-year-old Dindi had worn out his upper incisors, which is a common issue for older koalas.

Koalas have big incisors at the front of their mouth that they use to nip off eucalyptus leaves and then they use their big molars at the back of their mouth to grind those leaves into a paste to digest.

A dental specialist undertook a double root canal for the koala, which required two procedures: a temporary root canal involving drilling and the insertion of a filler to treat infection at the base of the teeth, and a second procedure creating tooth crowns permanently sealing the teeth.

Healesville Sanctuary Mammal Keeper Craig McQueen said the veterinary team continues to monitor Dindi’s teeth to ensure he maintains good health.

“As anyone who has had a root canal probably knows, it can be a bit of a painful procedure, but Dindi has been really keen for his food and he’s settled really quickly,” Mr McQueen said.

“We are lucky to work with specialists and have a team of dedicated vets and nurses at the Sanctuary’s Australian Wildlife Health Centre.

“Dindi received pain relief while recovering and will have a follow-up check in a couple of months’ time, but things are looking good for him, and we are hoping that he’ll keep eating all those eucalyptus leaves for a long time yet.”

Dindi is named after Wurundjeri Elder Murrundindi.

Koalas are one of Australia’s most iconic animals and can spend up to 20 hours a day sleeping in a tree. Their diet consists almost entirely of eucalyptus leaves. Threats to this species include loss of habitat due to agriculture and development, and the disease Chlamydia.

Visitors can see the koalas at Healesville Sanctuary from the beautiful Koala Forest boardwalk. Learn more about these animals during the daily koala keeper talks at 11am and 2pm.

Zoos Victoria and Healesville Sanctuary visitors are reminded that all tickets must be pre-booked online at zoo.org.au

Zoos Victoria Members no longer need to book but are required to scan their Membership card to gain entry.