Patients often wonder if they should remove their dentures before surgery. Removable dentures are generally taken out to prioritize overall patient safety during the procedure.
Reasons for Denture Removal
A primary concern for denture removal is the risk of airway obstruction, especially during general anesthesia. If a patient is unconscious, a dislodged denture could block the airway, making it difficult to manage breathing or insert breathing tubes. This could lead to reduced oxygen flow to the brain.
Dentures can also interfere with medical procedures. During intubation, they can hinder airway visualization and complicate the procedure. They may also impede the seal of a ventilation mask or interfere with imaging techniques like X-rays or MRI scans if they contain metallic components. Additionally, dentures could be damaged during the procedure, potentially injuring the patient if fragments break off.
Specific Situations and Fixed Dentures
The protocol for dental prosthetics during surgery depends on their type. Fixed prosthetics, such as implants, crowns, or bridges, are permanently anchored and do not need to be removed. They pose minimal risk of dislodgement or interference. While some fixed prosthetics might contain metal, modern implants are made from titanium or zirconia, which are not ferromagnetic and do not interfere with MRI scans.
The type of anesthesia also influences denture removal. For minor procedures under local anesthesia, where the patient remains conscious and airway management is not a concern, removal may not be necessary. However, for general anesthesia, where breathing is assisted and the patient is unconscious, removable dentures are typically removed to prevent complications. Patient safety remains the primary consideration.
What to Do Before and After Surgery
Patients should discuss their dentures with the medical team during pre-operative assessments. Informing the surgeon and anesthesiologist about any dental prosthetics allows them to make informed decisions and prepare accordingly. This ensures safety standards are met.
Removable dentures are removed as instructed by nursing staff, typically before entering the operating room. They should be stored safely in a labeled container. Post-surgery, dentures can be reinserted once the patient is fully awake and able to manage them. Recovery room staff will provide guidance on when it is appropriate to do so.