Dr. Xiaoqian Shu, a dentist with over 20 years of rich clinical experience, holds a distinguished educational background with degrees from the Institute of Neuroscience, West China University, and New York University, as well as membership in the International Association of Dental Implants. His extensive expertise allows him to provide specialized care while accepting various government-subsidized insurance plans such as Empire BC/BS, Affinity, Healthfirst, Fidelis, and WELLCARE. Additionally, Blue Cross Blue Shield plans cover dental implants, and elderly patients with Medicare and Medicaid may qualify for free implants. For more information, patients can contact Dr. Shu’s office directly.
In our conversation, Dr. Shu emphasized the transformative impact of dental implants, often referred to as humanity’s “third set of teeth,” for patients facing tooth loss. However, he noted that not every patient is a suitable candidate for implants. Individual conditions vary, and the complexity of the surgical process can differ significantly. For instance, patients with a history of severe smoking may face increased risks, while those with insufficient bone density may jeopardize the success rate of the procedure.
Another common issue in implant surgery is insufficient bone density in the maxillary alveolar ridge, primarily influenced by the anatomical structure of the upper jaw. There is a sinus cavity behind the molars and nasal cavities above the anterior teeth, often leading to severe bone shrinkage, especially in patients who have been edentulous for a long time or those who have worn removable dentures. However, Dr. Shu explained that through techniques like maxillary sinus lift and bone grafting, practitioners can effectively increase bone volume to support successful implant placement. He cautioned that sinus lift procedures, particularly lateral window techniques, are technically demanding and require a high level of surgical skill and experience.
Dr. Shu also discussed common oral health issues faced by the elderly, such as periodontal disease, tooth loss, and chewing difficulties. He pointed out the vital role of proper occlusion in enhancing the quality of life for older adults, emphasizing that tooth loss diminishes chewing functionality, making food less enjoyable and potentially leading to digestive problems. Poor oral health can disrupt body balance due to diminished sensory perception in the mouth, contributing to falls—an unfortunate circumstance that can have serious consequences, including mortality. Dr. Shu referenced scientific findings suggesting that individuals with teeth tend to live a decade longer than those who are edentulous. Fortunately, restorative options like dental implants can effectively address tooth loss, making proactive oral care, including timely implants, a critical strategy for preventing falls and promoting overall health in the elderly.
Dr. Shu’s practice occupies the entire eighth floor of his building, where elevator access is managed exclusively by the office. To minimize patient interaction and ensure safety, the elevator usage is paused while patients are being treated, allowing for a controlled flow of visitors. The office maintains a hygienic environment with windows on both ends, providing daily disinfecting and ventilation for the comfort and safety of all patients.
The practice has two locations in Flushing: 136-36 39th Ave, 8FL, Flushing, NY 11354, with appointments available at 718-886-7808 and 718-737-6180. A new location at Tianjing Medical Center is located at 131-07 40th Road, #E21, Flushing, NY 11354, where patients can call 929-380-7815 for appointments. Dr. Shu welcomes patients seven days a week from 9 AM to 6 PM.
