I would recommend orthodontics (braces) or porcelain veneers - very thin pieces of porcelain bonded to the outside of the teeth. Depending on how wide the gap is, you may benefit from using both options. If your diastema is caused by an oversized labial frenum, you may be a candidate for a surgical procedure called a frenectomy. It is a simple in-office treatment performed under local anesthesia that involves removing extra tissue between your teeth. In children, the gap may close on it's own, but for adults, braces may be required. A consultation with your dentist is essential to determine which option is the right one for you.
The best way to keep a newly whitened smile bright is by avoiding smoking and eating foods like coffee, wine and chocolates that stain teeth. If it can stain a white t-shirt, it will stain your teeth. For this reason, no whitening treatment is truly permanent. Your next best option is to retouch your teeth every few months when they start to lose their luster. My office offers a whitening for life program to our patients. After the initial whitening treatment, patients receive bleaching gels every six-months to keep their teeth white. Best of luck in keeping the sparkle in your smile.
Yes, electric toothbrushes can be safely used on crowns and veneers. To protect your dental work, avoid harsh "extra whitening" tooth pastes, and alcohol-based mouthwashes that can weaken the bonds in porcelain. I would advice using a non-abrasive toothpaste or toothpaste with baking soda, as well as non-alcoholic mouthwashes.
