By outdoor-nature-child.com Dr. Shuh Xiaoqian, a dentist with over 20 years of extensive clinical experience, holds degrees from the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Neuroscience, Sichuan University in Dentistry, and New York University in Dental Medicine. He is also a member of the International Academy of Implant Dentistry, showcasing his comprehensive expertise. Dr. Shuh accepts various government-supported insurances, including Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield, Affinity, Healthfirst, Fidelis, and WELLCARE, all of which cover dental implants. Additionally, elderly patients with Medicare and Medicaid may qualify for free dental implants; for more information, please contact Dr. Shuh’s office.
In an interview, Dr. Shuh highlighted the significance of dental implants, referring to them as humanity’s “third set of teeth.” He explained that while implants can greatly benefit patients with missing teeth, they are not suitable for everyone. Each patient’s individual circumstances vary, which can affect the complexity of the surgical process. Patients with a significant smoking history, for example, face increased risks, while others may have insufficient bone density that impacts the success rate of the implants.
Dr. Shuh frequently encounters cases of inadequate bone density in the maxillary alveolar ridge during implant surgeries. This is largely due to the anatomical structure of the upper jaw, which is located near the nasal cavity above the anterior teeth and features hollow maxillary sinuses behind the molars. Patients who have been edentulous for an extended period or who have worn removable dentures may experience severe bone resorption, rendering their bone mass insufficient to support implants. However, through procedures such as sinus lifting and bone grafting, it is possible to enhance bone volume, greatly improving the success rate of implants. He noted that sinus lifting surgery, particularly the lateral window technique, is complex and demands a high level of skill and experience from the surgeon.
According to Dr. Shuh, many elderly individuals face oral health issues, including periodontal disease, tooth loss, and chewing difficulties. The importance of proper occlusion in enhancing the quality of life for seniors cannot be overstated. Tooth loss reduces chewing efficiency, leading to tasteless meals, digestive problems, and overall negative health impacts. He further explained that the mouth is rich with sensory receptors, and poor occlusion can diminish sensory perception, thereby disrupting the stability of head and neck posture, which can affect balance. Coupled with age-related muscle atrophy and osteoporosis, this leads to an increased risk of falls among the elderly, which can result in severe consequences, including mortality. Scientific studies suggest that individuals with teeth can live an average of ten years longer than those without. Fortunately, dental implants can effectively restore missing teeth. Promoting oral health and encouraging timely dental interventions, such as implants and dentures, can serve as preventative measures against falls and are vital for safeguarding the health and well-being of the elderly.
Dr. Shuh’s clinic occupies the entire eighth floor of his building, and the elevator access to this floor is under the clinic’s control. When a patient is in session, elevator access is temporarily halted, ensuring that the clinic maintains minimal foot traffic. To provide a safe healthcare environment, Dr. Shuh’s clinic, which features windows on both sides, is disinfected daily, and all windows are opened for ventilation.
The clinic has two locations in Flushing: 136-36 39th Ave, 8FL, Flushing, NY 11354. For appointments, patients can call 718-886-7808 or 718-737-6180. There is also a new location at Tiansheng Medical Center: 131-07 40th Road, #E21, Flushing, NY 11354, with a separate appointment line at 929-380-7815. The clinic operates seven days a week from 9 AM to 6 PM and welcomes appointments.