A cross-sectional survey study on hot beverage consumption behaviors, temperature perceptions, and awareness of potential health effects

Aims and Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate hot beverage consumption frequency, temperature-related behaviors, awareness of potential oral health risks, and willingness to modify behavior among adults. The study also assessed the potential influence of dental professional recommendations on behavior change.Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted using an online questionnaire distributed through social media and personal networks. Adults aged 18 years or older were eligible to participate. The survey assessed demographics, consumption habits, temperature-related behaviors, awareness of health effects, and attitudes toward behavior change. A total of 745 responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests.Results: Hot beverage consumption was highly prevalent, with 58% of respondents reporting daily intake. Forty-one percent reported consuming beverages immediately while very hot, and 42% experienced burning sensations at least occasionally. Awareness of potential long-term health effects was limited, with 69% reporting no prior knowledge. Despite low concern, 48% indicated willingness to change behavior if informed, and 61% reported receptiveness to dentist guidance. No statistically significant associations were identified between prior awareness and willingness to change (p = 0.475) or between dentist recommendation and behavioral intent (p = 0.249).Conclusions: Self-reported consumption of beverages perceived as hot or very hot was common, although actual beverage temperatures were not measured and cannot be inferred from these data. Awareness of associated risks remained low. The findings are consistent with the possibility that lack of information may be a barrier to behavior change. Dental professionals may be well positioned to address this gap through simple, targeted patient education, with high reported patient receptiveness.