If you want to be noticed for the right reasons, looking good can go a long way toward achieving that result. Most Australians tend to agree with this sentiment according to the results of a recent study by Suncorp Bank, which found that Australians collectively spend $100 billion on their appearance each year. One such way of improving your appearance is to whiten your teeth.

When it comes to personal appearance, 90% of adults believe that your smile makes you more attractive to the opposite sex. It also makes a huge difference to the quality of your photos, especially when your picture is taken alongside a glamorous bride-to-be or a group of gorgeous pals on a night out. 

However, before you rush out to get your teeth whitened for that upcoming interview, wedding or social gathering, you need to be aware of a few crucial factors that may affect the impact of your newly whitened smile. Just like a freshly pressed suit or recently manicured fingernails, there are things you should and shouldn't do to get the best out of your teeth whitening treatment. 

Be Prudent with Your Timing

If you are whitening your teeth, especially for an upcoming event such as an interview or social gathering, you will need to time your whitening treatment just right. Whiten your teeth too early and you risk losing the initial sparkling, white hue you walked out of the dentist with. Whiten your teeth 3-7 days before your expected event for best results.

Avoid Staining Food and Drink for at Least 48 Hours

Most dentists recommend that you stay away from food and drink like coffee, cola, wine, dark sauces and foods with coloring for at least 48 hours post treatment. This is because teeth, after whitening treatment, are porous and more susceptible to staining. Give your teeth time to re-hydrate themselves and the enamel pores will close naturally. 

Brush After Moments of Weakness

If, like many people, you have a particular fondness for coffee or cigarettes, you may not last 48 hours. If this happens, wait 30 minutes for your saliva to break down any acidic residue left behind and then brush your teeth. 

Brushing too soon will leave your teeth vulnerable to any remaining acid, and brushing too late will cause staining. Be vigilant. 

Maintain Whitening with Trays

You can also maintain the whiteness of your teeth with take-home whitening trays. This will keep your smile radiant and possibly even shave off one or two shades more. 

Enjoy but Minimize Indulgences for as Long as Possible

Once you pass the 48 hour mark, your teeth should be re-hydrated and you may return to your former diet. However, do try to minimize contact with staining foods and drinks for as long as possible for best results. If you love coffee, try to drink it through a straw. Research shows that cola-based soft drinks cause more staining than coffee, so if possible quit these altogether for best results.