Gum Disease Treatment in West Des Moines, IA

Gum disease can start quietly. Many people don’t notice anything at first, until small changes like bleeding gums or persistent bad breath begin to show.

Getting care early helps prevent the condition from turning into something more serious.

You may need treatment if you notice:

We’re here to support patients in West Des Moines and nearby communities with comfortable, personalized care.

Gum disease affects about half of adults over 30, and many don’t notice it until it becomes more advanced.

Without proper care, gum disease can progress and cause tooth loss, and it may also increase your risk for conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.

Timely care helps control the infection and protect the bone and tissue that support your teeth. At Brighter Smiles Family Dentistry, we offer effective treatment options such as:

Taking action now can make a big difference in your long-term oral health.

Even with daily brushing and flossing, some areas of the mouth are difficult to clean.

When plaque turns into tartar, it gives bacteria a place to gather, which can irritate the gums and cause them to break down.

A few common risks can contribute to the development of gum disease, such as:

The good news is that gum disease is both preventable and treatable with routine dental exams, deep cleanings, and early care.

You might be dealing with gum disease if you’ve noticed any of the following signs:

If these symptoms sound familiar, it’s important to schedule an evaluation soon.

Gum disease can worsen over time, but early treatment can help protect your smile and prevent more serious problems.

At Brighter Smiles Family Dentistry in West Des Moines, our dentist, Dr. Melani Fulton, evaluates your gum health during every visit and recommends treatment when signs of gum disease are present.

Our team also removes plaque and tartar to help prevent complications.

Take the first step toward healthier gums—schedule your dental cleaning and gum disease evaluation today.

Dr. Melani Fulton, DDS — Expert Care with a Local Touch

Born and raised in West Des Moines, Dr. Fulton earned her dental doctorate from the University of Iowa and completed advanced orthodontic training. After years providing family dentistry in nearby Norwalk, she purchased a long-standing local practice from Dr. Dan Todd, continuing nearly 40 years of trusted care under the Brighter Smiles name.

She maintains strong ties to the West Des Moines community and supports professional standards through her memberships in organizations such as the American Orthodontic Society, the Iowa Dental Association, the ADA, and the Academy of General Dentistry.

Respect, Comfort & Modern Techniques

Dr. Fulton treats her patients “like family,” combining genuine warmth with modern, gentle care. This local legacy and patient-first approach reinforce not only her expertise but also Brighter Smiles’ reputation as a trusted local provider in West Des Moines.