This model of a molar shows color-coded barium banding patterns that reveal weaning age.

This model of a molar shows color-coded barium banding patterns that reveal weaning age.

View caption Ian Harrowell, Christine Austin, Manish Arora/Harvard School of Public Health

Scientific Tooth Fairies Investigate Neanderthal Breast-Feeding

Our closest relatives, chimpanzees and gorillas, breast-feed their offspring for several years. Some baby orangutans nurse until they are 7 years old. Researchers found a way to test ancient teeth for clues about when humans cut nursing short.

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