Gentle, Professional Care for a Cleaner, Healthier Smile

It’s amazing how a simple dental cleaning can make your whole smile feel brand new.

At Brighter Smiles Family Dentistry in West Des Moines, we take extra care to make each visit relaxing, thorough, and personalized just for you.

Here’s what you can expect when you visit us:

  • A gentle touch from skilled, friendly hygienists

  • Advanced tools that clean deeply without discomfort

  • One-on-one attention to answer your questions

  • A fresher, healthier smile you can feel good about

If it’s been a while since your last cleaning, we’ll help you get back on track—comfortably and confidently.

📅 Book Your Cleaning Today or call (515) 225-2577

Schedule Appointment
Patient receiving dental cleaning in West Des Moines, IA at Brighter Smiles Family Dentistry

Why a Professional Dental Cleaning Matters More Than You Think

Even with great brushing and flossing habits, it’s easy for plaque and tartar to collect in places your toothbrush can’t reach — especially beneath the gumline.

That’s where a professional dental cleaning at Brighter Smiles Family Dentistry in West Des Moines makes all the difference.

Goes Beyond What a Toothbrush Can Do

Daily brushing is important — but it can’t remove hardened plaque (tartar).

Our gentle hygienists use advanced tools and ultrasonic cleaning technology to reach deep between teeth and under gums.

This helps prevent cavities, gum irritation, and persistent bad breath, keeping your smile healthy from every angle.

Did you know gum disease often begins without obvious symptoms?

During your visit, we check your gum health, measure pocket depths, and remove buildup that can lead to gingivitis or early periodontal disease. Catching these issues early helps you avoid costly or invasive treatments later on.

(The ADA recommends professional dental cleanings about every six months for most people to maintain optimal oral health.)

Nothing compares to that smooth, polished feeling after a professional cleaning.

Many of our West Des Moines patients say it makes them feel more confident in their smile — and more motivated to keep up healthy habits at home.

Leave every visit with teeth that look brighter, feel cleaner, and truly shine.

The Brighter Smiles Cleaning Experience

At Brighter Smiles Family Dentistry in West Des Moines, every cleaning is thorough, customized, and designed for your comfort.

  • 1
    Precision You Can Feel:

    We use modern tools and a careful touch to remove stubborn buildup—especially in areas most people tend to miss. From back molars to beneath the gumline, your cleaning is customized to ensure no detail gets overlooked.

  • 2

    Gum Health Review:

    We take a close look at your gums for early signs of inflammation or recession, then share personalized prevention tips to help you maintain healthy gums between visits.

  • 3

    Simple, Personalized Aftercare:

    After your visit, we’ll share easy, personalized tips to help you keep your smile clean and your gums healthy between appointments.

Get a Cleaner Smile with Brighter Smiles

You deserve a smile that’s healthy, confident, and easy to maintain — and a professional dental cleaning is the first step.

At Brighter Smiles Family Dentistry in West Des Moines, we make keeping up with your oral health simple and stress-free.

Our friendly team, modern technology, and flexible scheduling mean you can always fit your care into your life — not the other way around.

🦷 Ready to feel the difference? Schedule your dental cleaning in West Des Moines today or call (515) 225-2577 to book your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Cleaning

The American Dental Association recommends routine cleanings every six months, though individuals with gum disease, diabetes, or other risk factors may benefit from visits every 3–4 months.

Most cleanings last 30–60 minutes, sometimes longer if there’s significant buildup, while patients with excellent hygiene may finish faster.

No — professional cleanings aren’t painful, though mild sensitivity is possible if you have inflammation. Informing the team allows them to adjust techniques or suggest comfort aids.

The visit typically includes removing tartar buildup, smoothing the teeth with a polish, thorough flossing, optional fluoride treatment, and an evaluation of your gum and oral health.

Definitely — clearing away hardened buildup helps reduce your risk of tooth decay and gum issues, and routine visits allow us to catch problems before they escalate.

Often, yes — fluoride may be applied to help strengthen enamel, especially for patients prone to decay. It’s a recommended but optional add-on.

Not at every visit — X‑rays are taken as needed based on dental exam schedule or if our team detects potential issues beneath the surface.

Yes — professional cleanings are safe during pregnancy and help reduce gingivitis risk, supporting both maternal and fetal health .

Yes — especially if no fluoride was applied. When fluoride is used, it’s best to wait about 30 minutes before eating or drinking.

Use fluoride toothpaste twice a day, floss thoroughly, rinse with antibacterial mouthwash if needed, and stick to a healthy diet with regular dental visits.

Modern Dentistry, Gentle Care

Comfortable and Caring Dental Care for the Whole Family

Dr. Melani Fulton
Meet Dr. Melani Fulton

Every cleaning at Brighter Smiles Family Dentistry is guided by the expertise of Dr. Melani Fulton, a West Des Moines native and graduate of the University of Iowa College of Dentistry.

With advanced training in orthodontics and preventive care, Dr. Fulton combines precision, comfort, and a personal touch to help patients keep their smiles healthy for life.

She’s a proud member of the ADA, Iowa Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, and American Orthodontic Society—bringing trusted, up-to-date care to every appointment.

Learn more about Dr. Fulton →

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
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
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
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
Sara Tolbert

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

Sara Tolbert , 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
Susan Strader Ohnysty

Very friendly and knowledgeable.😊

Susan Strader Ohnysty , via Facebook