What should you do with dentures during ventilation?

• A. Removed and stored
• B. Left in place
• C. Removed and replaced with bite block
• D. Soak in antiseptic

Answer: (B)

During ventilation with a bag-mask or other positive-pressure device, you should generally leave dentures in place. They help maintain the structure of the mouth and airway, and removing them unnecessarily can risk airway obstruction or aspiration if a denture slips loose. Keeping them in place also allows for a quicker, more reliable seal around the mask. Only remove dentures if they are loose, ill-fitting, or clearly interfering with the mask seal or airflow; in such cases, remove them carefully to prevent displacement. If intubation is anticipated, some clinicians remove loose dentures to improve access, but for routine ventilation they’re left in place.