Gum Disease Treatment in West Des Moines, IA

Gum disease can progress quietly, sometimes without obvious symptoms, until it causes issues like bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or gum recession.

Without timely treatment, gum disease can progress to cause tooth loss, infections, and potentially impact your overall health.

We proudly serve patients in West Des Moines and surrounding communities with care that’s both thorough and comfortable.

Gum disease affects about half of adults over 30—and without treatment, it can quickly lead to tooth loss and serious health risks. Studies link advanced gum disease to heart disease, diabetes, and other systemic conditions.

The good news? Early treatment can halt gum disease in its tracks and protect your smile. At Brighter Smiles Family Dentistry, we provide effective, personalized care, including:

Even with regular brushing and flossing, certain areas in your mouth are difficult to clean. Over time, plaque hardens into tartar, leading to bacterial infections that irritate and damage gum tissue. Common risk factors include:

The good news is that Gum disease is preventable and treatable with routine dental exams, deep cleanings, and early intervention.

Are you experiencing any of these warning signs?

🚨 Red, swollen, or bleeding gums

🚨 Chronic bad breath that won’t go away

🚨 Tartar buildup along the gumline

🚨 Receding gums making teeth appear longer

🚨 Loose or shifting teeth

If so, don’t wait—gum disease worsens over time if left untreated.

At Brighter Smiles Family Dentistry in West Des Moines, our skilled dental hygienists monitor your gum health, removing plaque and tartar before it leads to serious complications.

If we detect gum disease, we’ll provide a personalized treatment plan just fort you, to restore your gums and protect your smile.

🦷 Don’t let gum disease put your oral health at risk! Reach out to us today to schedule your dental cleaning and gum disease evaluation.

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.