If you're looking for a way to brighten your smile while also getting a significant boost in your self-esteem and confidence, then look no further than your local cosmetic dentist and his or her teeth whitening treatments. However, it is imperative that you understand that you will need to take steps in maintaining these teeth whitening treatments if you want to keep that pearly white smile and the boost in your confidence once you leave the dentist's office. These steps will also help to minimize the risk of discoloration to your teeth in the future. 

Tip #1: Don't Overlook the Importance of the Instructions Your Dentist Gives You

Before you leave your cosmetic dentist's office after receiving a teeth whitening treatment, he or she will provide you with special aftercare instructions. These instructions should be followed in order to achieve the best results. In addition, it is recommended that you schedule subsequent whitening treatments, so make sure that these appointments are scheduled well in advance.

Tip #2: Don't Assume You Don't Need to Brush and Floss

While it is true that your teeth are whiter, it doesn't mean that you don't need to slow down on your regular oral hygiene routine. In fact, your brushing and flossing routine is that much more important right now. After a whitening procedure, make sure that you continue to brush and floss normally to ensure that any plaque build-up is removed from your teeth and that any stains that haven't had a chance to set into your teeth are also removed.

Tip #3: Try to Avoid Colored Toothpaste/Mouthwash

If you typically use a colored toothpaste or mouthwash, you will want to put it to the side—especially for the first couple of days after your whitening treatment. These oral hygiene products have the potential to stain your teeth's surface, which is the last thing that you want to do after just getting your teeth whitened. You may want to talk to your cosmetic dentist about the best oral products for maintaining the brightness of your smile after the whitening procedure.

Tip #4: Don't Consume Staining Foods

More than likely, your cosmetic dentist will encourage you to stay away from foods and beverages that have the potential to stain your teeth after your whitening treatment like tea, coffee, soda, red wine, curry, dark berries, etc. These types of foods and drinks should be entirely avoided during the first 24 hours. After that, they should only be consumed in moderation, and when they are consumed, it is imperative that you rinse your mouth immediately afterward to minimize the risk of staining.

If you have any questions, talk to your cosmetic dentist.