Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the potential dental health risks associated with consuming hot beverages during winter, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right drinks and maintaining oral hygiene to prevent tooth decay. Group 1: Risks of Hot Beverages - Hot drinks can create a sustained acidic environment in the mouth, leading to continuous acid production by bacteria, which can outpace the natural remineralization process of teeth [2] - Sticky ingredients in drinks like sesame paste and milk tea can adhere to teeth, providing a prolonged food source for bacteria [2] - Drinking excessively hot beverages (above 60°C) poses a risk of burns to the oral mucosa and has been classified as a potential carcinogen by the World Health Organization [2] Group 2: Healthier Drinking Habits - Recommended beverages include plain water, unsweetened tea, or black coffee, as they are less harmful to dental health compared to sugary drinks [3] - It is advised to keep the temperature of hot drinks below 50°C to avoid damage to teeth and oral tissues [3] - Consuming drinks quickly during meals and rinsing the mouth with water afterward can help minimize the time teeth are exposed to acidic environments [3] Group 3: Special Considerations for Different Age Groups - Children are particularly vulnerable to tooth decay from sugary drinks, and parents should limit their intake and ensure regular dental check-ups [3] - Elderly individuals may face increased dental challenges due to gum recession and reduced saliva production, necessitating diligent oral hygiene practices [3] - Individuals with braces should be especially careful to clean around orthodontic appliances to prevent food residue buildup [3]