a girl in pain from a toothache in cary nc

The Difference Between "I Can Live With This" and "I Wish I'd Done Something Sooner"

January 23, 2026
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dental emergencies cary nc

You know the feeling; you bite down on something and feel a slight twinge in your back molar. Or you notice that your gums are bleeding when you brush your teeth, but you ignore it, thinking it will go away on its own.

When your mouth is trying to tell you something, it’s normal to hope that nothing’s wrong. You’re busy and don’t want to take the time to visit your dentist, right?

Let’s take a look at the difference between saying, “I can live with this,” and “I wish I’d done something sooner.”

The Importance of Being Proactive About Your Oral Health

At Signature Smiles, we understand how hectic your schedule is, and we know that many patients suffer from dental anxiety due to unpleasant experiences, fear of losing control, or other reasons.

However, we urge patients to take a proactive approach to their oral health; here’s why you shouldn’t ignore your teeth and gums:

  • To prevent serious health issues — Your oral and overall health are directly linked. Research shows that bacteria from your mouth can lead to diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and Alzheimer’s disease.
  • To maintain your smile’s appearance and functionRegular dental visits can keep your teeth looking and feeling their best. We recommend a routine exam and cleaning every six months. This allows us to remove stubborn plaque and tartar and assess your dental needs.
  • To avoid unnecessary discomfort — When you ignore dental issues, you could end up experiencing unnecessary pain. That’s why we encourage you to make regular dental visits and contact us at the first sign of a dental issue.
  • To enhance your quality of life — Keeping your teeth and gums healthy can improve your appearance and boost your self-confidence. A beautiful smile can make you look forward to living a full life.
  • To save money — Delaying necessary dental care can turn simple issues into more complex problems, costing you more money. We urge you to call our office if you’re experiencing a problem; we can customize a treatment plan suited to your budget and timeline.

Looking for a Dental Home in Cary, NC?

If you’d like to speak with our experienced dental team about your oral health concerns, we’ll happily assist you! At Signature Smiles, our goal is to help every patient achieve a healthy smile and keep their natural teeth for a lifetime.

When you’re ready to schedule a consultation or appointment, please reach out to us at (919) 803-0168.