THE RELATION BETWEEN WEANING AND TEETHING – A LITERARY REVIEW

Abstract

In Ayurveda samhitas there is much discussion on weaning process in infants and eruption of teeth. As per Ayurveda weaning should be started when eruption of teeth starts in infant. Weaning can be known as stanyaapanayanam[weaning] and teething is known as jatadashana[Teething]. A gradual replacement of breast milk with other nutrients rich foods is a crucial step of growth and development in an infant.To find the relationship between weaning and eruption of teeth, a literary study was conducted which includes Samhitas mainly Charaka, Sushruta and Vagbhata and Kashyapa along with various databases available on relevant sites.In Kashyap samhita detailed description of ejection of breast milk, its qualities, its effects and symptoms of vitiated breast milk and its treatment is mentioned. Acharya Charak, Acharya Sushruta and Acharya Vagbhata have quoted the different stages of development according to diet in children. According to them Ksheerap avastha[0-12months] from birth to 12 months is for exclusive breast milk feeding, Ksheerannad avastha[1-2 years] from 1 year to 2 years is for both breast milk and food and the last stage is Annada avastha[2years and above] from 2 years onwards exclusively for solid food only and breast milk feeding should be stopped. As per the above description we can see that weaning should be done post the age of 2 years.  But still Acharya Vagbhata has mentioned that weaning should be started when the dentition starts.

As per the above reference if we look into eruption of teeth, it generally starts from the 8^th month, thus weaning from breast milk should coincide with this timeline.

In this article we are dealing with following points. 

1. What is weaning?
2. Types of weaning
3. What is dentition?
4. Relationship between weaning and teething

All the information regarding these points is studied thoroughly through many sources.

Weaning is gradual cessation of breast feeding. It is the dietary transition from breast milk to liquid diet to semi-solid diet to solid foods ultimately.It is a complex process, which varies with each child.  Most children in traditional societies are completely weaned between two and four years of age. Weaning should be started with mixed feeding when early eruption of incisor teeth starts and should be completed before the permanent first molars erupt.