I have used the steam iron on a few stocks and a few tables to remove dents. As someone already posted, so long as it is not a cut, because then the fibers in the wood are cut and they won't react the same. I use a wet washcloth, use an old one, or your wife will be steaming, and wet it and then ring it out. Make sure the finish is off the area and apply the cloth to that area and put the steam iron on it's highest setting. You will hear it sizzle and cause steam, when it is done making noises, look at the area. Depending on the depth of the dent, you might have to do this a few times.
Let the area dry and you should be ready to sand and finish the wood.
Good luck