Your Teeth are Examined
At the first appointment, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums and discuss how much whiter whitening can make your teeth. Before you begin at-home whitening, your teeth must be clean. Any cavities must be filled, and old or leaky fillings may need to be replaced. You may also be asked to sign a consent form.

Your Molds are Made
Next, molds of your teeth will be made. Often this procedure can be done during the first visit. The molds are used to make custom-fitting, flexible vinyl trays that hold the whitening gel snugly against your teeth.

Helpful Tips
For best results, follow these steps:

• Brush and floss your teeth before putting in the whitening trays.

• Follow your dentist's directions exactly, and use only the materials your dentist gives you.

• Spit out any excess saliva. The whitening agent won't harm you if swallowed, but it can irritate your throat.

• Don't eat or drink while you have the trays in your mouth.

• Rinse your mouth out well after whitening.

• Avoid citrus fruits and other acidic foods. They can make your teeth more sensitive.

• Call your dentist if your throat, teeth, or gums feel irritated.

• Place the trays in just before going to sleep so the gel can work while you are asleep and saliva flow decreases.

You Receive Your Trays and Gel
Finally, you'll be given your trays and the whitening gel. You'll be shown how to put the gel in the trays and how to fit the trays in your mouth. You'll also be told when and for how long to wear the trays each day. How many weeks you'll need to use the whitening gel depends upon how badly discolored your teeth are and how carefully you follow your dentist's directions.

What to Expect
You'll probably notice that your teeth begin to look whiter within a few days. Some teeth can be harder to whiten than others, however. You can discuss the results at your follow-up visit.

Checking the Results
After you've whitened your teeth for the recommended time, the dentist or a trained staff person will check your teeth and discuss the results with you. Do not continue daily whitening unless you're told to, or you may overwhiten your teeth. To help keep your teeth whiter, your dentist may recommend touch-up treatments from time to time. Be sure to follow instructions for how often and how long to do these treatments.

Keeping Your Teeth White
Once your teeth are whiter, you can help keep them that way by following these tips:

• Don't smoke. Smoking stains the outer layers of your teeth, causing them to turn brown.

• Avoid food and liquids that stain. Red wine, tea, coffee, and some foods such as berries, can leave stains on your teeth.

• Brush and floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque. Plaque turns to tartar (calculus) which can discolor your teeth.

• See your dentist for regular checkups and cleaning. Removing plaque and tartar helps keep your teeth white and free of decay.

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