Precision Scaling
Careful removal of tartar from the tooth surfaces and just below the gumline.
- Removes hardened calculus
- Uses ultrasonic and hand tools
- Gentle on healthy gums
- Prevents gingivitis
Maintain your healthy smile with our thorough, gentle adult cleanings. Designed for patients without active gum disease, this routine care prevents cavities and keeps your teeth looking and feeling great.

A healthy adult cleaning, clinically known as a prophylaxis, is the standard six-month cleaning designed for patients who have generally healthy gums and bone structure. It focuses on prevention and maintenance.
Even if you brush and floss perfectly at home, calculus (tartar) can slowly build up in hard-to-reach areas. At Carmel Family Dental, our hygienists carefully remove this buildup, polish away surface stains, and leave your teeth feeling incredibly smooth.
Here is a simple overview of what to expect.
| Topic | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Maintain health in patients without active gum disease |
| Frequency | Typically every 6 months |
| Duration | 45-60 minutes (often paired with an exam) |
| Discomfort | Minimal; very gentle technique |
| Focus Areas | Above and slightly below the gumline |
| Results | Smooth teeth, brighter smile, fresh breath |
| Insurance | Usually covered at 100% twice a year |
| Serving | Indianapolis, Carmel, Zionsville, Fishers, Westfield, Noblesville |
Tailored treatments to meet your specific goals.
Careful removal of tartar from the tooth surfaces and just below the gumline.
Smoothing the enamel to remove minor stains and make it harder for plaque to stick.
Thorough flossing between all teeth to remove debris and check tight contacts.
Personalized advice on brushing and flossing techniques based on your specific mouth.
A consultation helps determine if this is the best path for your goals.
Adults who are due for their routine biannual dental maintenance visit.
Patients who do not have active periodontal (gum) disease or deep gum pockets.
Adults who develop surface stains and want to keep their smile bright and clean.
Those who want to proactively remove plaque before it can cause tooth decay.
Patients who want to eliminate the hidden bacteria that cause chronic bad breath.
Adults who understand that oral health is directly linked to overall systemic health.
No pressure and no rushing. We give you the information you need to decide thoughtfully.
We review any changes to your medical history or medications since your last visit.
We briefly check your gum pockets to confirm a standard cleaning is still appropriate.
Our hygienist performs the scaling, polishing, and flossing with a gentle touch.
We provide personalized advice on your brushing and flossing technique.
The dentist reviews your X-rays and performs a clinical exam to check for any issues.
We schedule your next six-month cleaning before you leave to keep you on track.
Careful planning follows a predictable, patient-centered sequence.
A quick look at your mouth to assess the amount of buildup and overall tissue health.
We often use a gentle ultrasonic instrument to loosen and wash away larger tartar deposits.
Fine hand instruments are used to meticulously remove any remaining tartar around the gumline.
A gritty paste and a spinning cup are used to polish the teeth, removing stains and smoothing enamel.
We floss between every tooth to ensure no plaque or paste is left behind.
A protective fluoride varnish may be applied to strengthen the teeth against decay.

The right choice depends on your specific needs.
| Feature | Healthy Adult Cleaning | Periodontal Maintenance | Deep Cleaning (SRP) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical Name | ✓ Prophylaxis | Periodontal Maintenance | Scaling & Root Planing |
| Who It’s For | ✓ Patients with healthy gums | Patients with history of gum disease | Patients with active gum disease |
| Frequency | ✓ Every 6 months | Every 3-4 months | One-time intensive treatment |
| Depth | ✓ Above and slightly below gumline | Above and below gumline | Deep into periodontal pockets |
| Goal | ✓ Prevent disease | Maintain arrested disease | Stop active infection |
Results depend on careful diagnosis, disciplined planning, and a team that respects your goals.
Our team is known for having a light touch, making cleanings comfortable even for sensitive patients.
We respect your schedule and strive to start and finish your routine visits on time.
We educate and encourage better home care without ever making you feel guilty or judged.
Our polishing techniques effectively remove daily stains, leaving your smile noticeably brighter.
Every cleaning includes a comprehensive check by the dentist to catch any issues early.
Patients consistently praise our hygiene team for their thoroughness and friendly demeanor.
Our approach is designed around clear information and careful design.
I have very sensitive teeth and usually hate cleanings, but the hygienist here was so gentle. My teeth feel incredibly clean and I had zero pain.
Always on time, always friendly, and they do a fantastic job. They even got rid of the coffee stains on my front teeth that my last dentist couldn’t.
They take the time to explain how I can improve my brushing without making me feel bad about it. A truly professional and caring team.

Every treatment plan is developed with attention to health, function, and appearance.
Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry
Dr. Stuart focuses on natural-looking cosmetic and restorative care that respects the character of each patient’s smile.
Read Full Bio →
Cosmetic Dentistry & Implants
Dr. Schraeder brings digital planning and detail-oriented craftsmanship to cosmetic treatment conversations and smile design.
Read Full Bio →Clear answers to common questions.
Our team can help you understand how your benefits and treatment options may apply.
We review available benefits before your care begins.
Our treatment coordinators help you understand the clinical sequence and timing.
Carmel Family Dental is conveniently located in Carmel, Indiana, and welcomes patients from throughout the greater Indianapolis area.
Schedule a cosmetic dentistry consultation at Carmel Family Dental. We will listen to your goals, review the health of your smile, and explain the appropriate options clearly.
13590 N Meridian St, Suite 200, Carmel, IN 46032 | Serving Indianapolis & Surrounding Areas