. the nerve that you start to feel pain. Therefore, treating cavities sooner rather than later prevents them from extending deeper because, when left untreated, a larger portion of tooth is broken down by the decay, which requires a dental crown. When a tooth with a large cavity is treated with a crown, the decay is essentially removed and the crown will seal the tooth and ultimately restore function. Root canal treatment If decay extends deep enough into the nerve of a tooth, a root canal may also be needed. When a root canal is completed, a tooth becomes more susceptible to fracture as a larger portion of the tooth is standardly removed. Therefore, after undergoing root canal therapy, a dental crown is usually recommended to provide protection and restore function. Esthetic treatment Dental crowns and dental veneers are common restorative treatments used for cosmetic purposes. Some indications include changing the shape of current teeth, changing the overall shade of teeth and restoring a more uniform smile by treating multiple teeth. A more comprehensive treatment plan may be developed to ultimately plan for the best esthetic treatment outcome. When deciding whether or not to cap a tooth, consider the tooth’s longevity, function and appearance. Dental crowns are effective restorations that can address multiple dental concerns. Sarah Khoshniyati (“Dr. Sarah”) is a dentist with Palm Desert Smiles and can be reached at (760) 568.3602. Throughout the years, I’ve encountered many clients who repeat dysfunctional behaviors like they are on autopilot. They rarely question or challenge their choices because people usually do what is familiar. For many of us, the known is preferable to the unknown. We’re more likely to remain in dead-end situations than to deal with change. There seems to be a built-in resistance, and I believe, that if you resist, it persists. My mantra is that unless you explore it, you’re either going to become it or get into a relationship with it. Resistance to change can come in many forms. Justifying or rationalizing can keep us entangled in a web of denial and negativity. Fear of the unknown can squash any opportunity for personal and/or spiritual growth. Feelings of low self-worth might make one cling to fear and the critical self, whereas a positive self-image can enhance the belief that if I leap, the net will appear. Change can feel stressful and scary but taking risks doesn’t have to feel risky. It’s important to learn that being uncomfortable in your own skin can offer a plethora of opportunities. In his Psychology Today article, “The Soil You Come From,” journalist Jeff Chu states, “Soil can be denuded and degraded, and it can be nourished and amended.” So too, can our views about change. We might see the human mind as a compost pile. The top layer of decomposing organic material can be compared to a traumatic past, but one can realize that underneath is a universe that “teems with so many life forms and so much potential.” Digging deeper into the soil, Chu notes, “the colors and textures began to change…the soil felt light and soft, almost fluffy… clean, fresh.” If one dares to dig deeper and chooses to let go of “impossible dreams, unhelpful illusions, bad habits and harmful longings,” the potential for living one’s purpose can be limitless. The reasons for change must be compelling enough to outweigh the reluctance. Change is not always easy; it demands courage, introspection and the willingness to confront the unknown. Yet, the power of transformation lies in its ability to open doors to new perspectives and possibilities previously unseen. Unlearning the dysfunctional soft wiring of the mind (which comes in the form of negative fixed beliefs) and step into uncharted territory can be life-giving and life-sustaining. I wrote the following to help inspire clients challenged with facing change: If I decide to change Might have to rearrange Behaviors that at first seem strange Like climbing a foreboding mountain range. Healthy change supports a ripple or “butterfly effect” into the world around us. Maybe now would be the perfect time to spread your wings and fly. Dr. Amy Austin is a licensed marriage and family therapist (MFC#41252) and doctor of clinical psychology in Rancho Mirage. She can be reached at (760) 774.0047. www.DesertHealthNews.com July/August 2025 Medical News The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 7 The reasons for change must be compelling enough to outweigh the reluctance. www.palmdesertsmiles.com The latest technologies for a healthier, more youthful smile Sarah A. Khoshniyati, DDS "Dr. Sarah" Nicholas S. Baumann, DDS "Dr. Nick" Technology in dentistry is very exciting and evolves as new materials and equipment are introduced. We select only the most proven, effective, patient and comfort-focused technologies. • CEREC Same-Day Crowns • Implants • iCAT 3D X-Ray/Digital X-Rays • Modern Periodontal Care • Hard/Soft Tissue Laser • Mercury-free Practice • Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation • TMD/TMJ Support • Conscious Sedation • Fountain of Youth Dentures • KöR® Teeth Whitening Services and products we offer: 760.568.3602 44239 Monterey Avenue • Palm Desert PalmDesertSmiles.com Follow us! Have you ever wondered why your dentist suggests a crown? Dental crowns are unique restorations that can address multiple issues. They are custom-made caps that cover the entire tooth to restore its function, strength and appearance. Dental crowns are prescribed for various reasons, but most commonly to treat teeth that have been largely compromised due to decay or trauma, and also for esthetic purposes to enhance appearance. Here are some indications that may require crown placement: Cracked or fractured teeth Dental crowns restore strength to cracked or fractured teeth. Old restorations, such as amalgam fillings, take up a large majority of the tooth and are more prone to cracks over time. They may require a crown to replace and restore function and prevent further cracking. Tooth decay Have you ever been told you need a filling even though you do not feel pain? There is a large misconception that cavities are always accompanied by pain. When a small cavity in the tooth crosses the junction between the enamel and dentin, a filling is usually recommended. It is not until the cavity is much larger and near To Cap or Not to Cap Reasons to cap a compromised tooth By Sarah Khoshniyati, DDS "I Don’t Want to Change!" By Amy Austin, PSYD, LMFT www.capcomts.com WE NEED YOU! Volunteers in Medicine provides FREE primary care for uninsured adults who have limited income and don’t have insurance. Each year, many of your fellow MDs, DOs, PAs, NPs and nurses give their time and talent to VIM. Make a difference today! Become a volunteer and help our community get healthy! For more information on how you can help call (760) 342-4414
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