While there are many methods to get whiter teeth, the best way is by having a professional whitening treatment done in-office by a cosmetic dentist. This procedure requires a financial investment, but it can brighten your smile by several shades in just one office visit. But after a whitening treatment, you still have to be diligent if you want to maintain the brightness of your new smile. Use the following tips to keep your teeth white after having them professionally whitened:

Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks

Most people know that beverages such as coffee and tea can stain your teeth, but there are many other foods and drinks that stain as well. In order to maintain your white smile, you should consume certain things, such as red wine, marinara sauce, blueberries, dark soda, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, and cranberry or grape juice, in moderation. 

Brush After Eating or Drinking

One of the best ways to keep teeth white and prevent surface stains on your teeth is by brushing them after eating or drinking anything. This will remove tiny particles of food that stick to the surface of the teeth and help promote staining. If you don't have any toothpaste available, brushing with a wet toothbrush still also be beneficial.

Rinse Your Mouth with Water

If you don't have access to a toothbrush after eating or drinking something, try rinsing your mouth with plain water. Swishing water in your mouth can also help remove food particles so you don't get stains on your newly whitened teeth.

Use a Straw to Consume Staining Beverages

Even though coffee, tea, red wine, and dark sodas can stain teeth, many people still like to consume these beverages. If you absolutely can't give up drinking one of these beverages on occasion, use a straw. When you use a straw, the liquid is directed towards your throat and does not come in contact with the surface of your front teeth. Using a straw can allow you to enjoy beverages that stain teeth without sacrificing your new white smile.

Use Whitening Products for Maintenance

There are several brands of whitening toothpastes and whitening mouth rinses that can be purchased over the counter. After you have your teeth professionally whitened, ask your cosmetic dentist for a recommendation on which types and brands are the best to use to help maintain the shade of your smile. Whitening toothpastes and rinses can be very effective at keeping teeth white when used on a regular basis.