Patient receiving a dental exam at Brighter Smiles Family Dentistry in West Des Moines, IA

A Simple Step Toward a Healthier Smile

It’s easy to put off a dental visit — especially when life gets busy.

But if you’ve noticed tooth sensitivity, sore gums, or it’s just been a while since your last checkup, now’s the perfect time to come see us.

At Brighter Smiles Family Dentistry in West Des Moines, our dental exams are quick, gentle, and focused on prevention.

Every visit includes:

  • Digital X-rays to spot hidden issues early

  • Gum health & oral cancer screenings for total peace of mind

  • Personalized care advice to keep your smile bright and healthy

Think of your exam as more than a routine check — it’s a way to protect your smile and your confidence for the long run.

👉 Ready when you are? Book your dental exam today.

Schedule Appointment

Why Skipping Exams Can Cost You More

Life gets busy — but skipping your routine dental exam can create problems that cost far more time and money down the road.

Problems Build Quietly

Most dental problems—like decay or gum irritation—develop quietly, long before you can feel them. A quick, preventive dental exam helps catch them early—before they turn into cavities, infections, or tooth loss.

Even strong dental work—like fillings, crowns, or implants—can weaken over time.

Small cracks or loosened edges can go unnoticed until they require major repair. Regular checkups ensure everything stays in great condition.

Your mouth is connected to your whole body. Poor oral health can raise inflammation in the body, which is tied to heart concerns, diabetes, and other systemic issues.

Routine dental visits help protect not just your smile, but your total well-being.

At Brighter Smiles Family Dentistry in West Des Moines, our goal is to make preventive care easy and stress-free.

We focus on early detection and personalized care—so you can stay ahead of problems and enjoy lasting oral health.

What to Expect During Your Dental Exam

At Brighter Smiles Family Dentistry in West Des Moines, your dental exam is designed to be comfortable, clear, and complete — so you leave confident about your oral health.

  • 1

    Step 1: Thorough Assessment

    We start with a visual check for decay, damage, or gum issues and review any existing dental work—fillings, crowns, or implants—to be sure everything’s holding up.

  • 2

    Step 2: Digital Diagnostics

    When needed, we use digital X-rays and measure gum health to spot hidden concerns early. Early detection allows us to treat issues quickly and comfortably—before they require extensive dental work.

  • 3

    Step 3: Honest Conversation

    We take time to listen to your concerns and explain your results clearly. You’ll get straightforward recommendations for next steps and preventive care.

Your comfort comes first—from start to finish.

👉 Ready for your gentle dental exam? Schedule your visit today.

Choose a Team That Cares About More Than Just Teeth

At Brighter Smiles Family Dentistry in West Des Moines, we don’t just check teeth — we care about the people behind every smile.

Our friendly team, led by Dr. Fulton, takes pride in providing gentle care, clear communication, and modern technology to make every visit comfortable and stress-free.

We’re known across West Des Moines and nearby Iowa communities for dental exams that help patients stay healthy, confident, and informed — not just for today, but for years to come.

Your smile deserves a team that listens and truly cares.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Exams

Most patients benefit from a check‑up every six months, especially since insurance typically covers two visits per year. If you have gum disease, diabetes, or other risk factors, we may recommend more frequent exams.

A standard dental exam—excluding cleaning—takes about 30‑60 minutes, including X‑rays and a discussion of findings.

Most dental exams are pain‑free and focus on prevention. If you have sensitive teeth, we’ll adjust techniques or offer comfort options to keep you at ease.

Not always. If you haven’t had recent X‑rays or if we notice issues, we’ll take low‑radiation digital X‑rays to check for cavities, bone loss, or other hidden concerns .

During your visit, we’ll inspect your teeth, gums, and soft tissues; possibly take X‑rays; perform scaling to remove plaque/tartar; and polish your teeth. We also evaluate bite and oral cancer risk.

Most plans cover two exams per year, but if yours doesn’t, our office will provide out‑of‑pocket pricing or help find a plan that works for you.

Yes—routine dental exams and cleanings are important during pregnancy to reduce gum disease risk and support overall health.

No. Many issues—like cavities, gum problems, or even early oral cancer—can exist without symptoms. Regular exams help catch these early.

If you have risk factors like a history of cavities, gum disease, chronic conditions, braces, or tobacco use, we may recommend exams every 3‑4 months.

Just brush and floss beforehand, bring your current medical/dental history, note any symptoms or questions, and arrive a few minutes early for paperwork.

Modern Dentistry, Gentle Care

Comfortable and Caring Dental Care for the Whole Family

Dr. Melani Fulton
Meet Dr. Melani Fulton — Your West Des Moines Dentist

Your exam is led by Dr. Melani Fulton, a West Des Moines native and graduate of the University of Iowa College of Dentistry.

As a member of the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, and American Orthodontic Society, Dr. Fulton stays current with the latest in preventive and restorative care.

Patients appreciate her gentle approach, clear communication, and commitment to making each visit comfortable and stress-free. With Dr. Fulton, you’ll always understand your results and next steps — so you can make confident choices about your oral health.

👉 Experience patient-first care with Dr. Fulton — schedule your dental exam today.

Join the Many Smiles We’ve Brightened!

Michelle Holtz

Dr Fulton and her staff are wonderful. They are so personable. They listen to any concerns you have, and go above to make sure you are comfortable and happy when you leave. I highly recommend her for your dental needs.

Michelle Holtz , via Facebook
Leah Wilson

We had our first family visit with Dr. Fulton today! Everyone was fantastic! So happy with the service and quality of care!

Leah Wilson , via Facebook
Lorron Moffatt

After moving from Mn to Iowa needing a Dentist Brighter Smiles was referred to us by our Son and his Fiancé. Made the Appointment and was very pleased with them .

Lorron Moffatt , via Facebook
Sean Smith

Great place and great service. I have been using Brighter Smiles since they opened and have never once had an issue.

Sean Smith , via Facebook
Ken O'Brien

First appointment with Dr. Fulton today. Enjoyed meeting her and found the treatment to be top notch!

Ken O'Brien , via Facebook
Sara Tolbert

Very friendly atmosphere and they take the time to explain everything to you. Always a great experience.

Sara Tolbert , via Facebook
Susan Strader Ohnysty

Very friendly and knowledgeable.😊

Susan Strader Ohnysty , via Facebook