Which of the following is a common precaution before performing dental procedures?

Reviewing the patient's medical history is a vital precaution before performing any dental procedure because it ensures that the dental team is aware of the patient's overall health, including any medical conditions, allergies, and medications that may affect the treatment. This information is crucial for making informed decisions regarding the procedure, anticipating potential complications, and ensuring the safety and effectiveness of the care provided. Each patient's medical history can significantly impact the planning and execution of dental procedures, thereby helping to minimize risks for the patient.

Engaging in a dental extraction without fully assessing the patient's medical background could lead to unnecessary complications or adverse reactions. Additionally, administering anesthesia without obtaining informed consent is not only unethical but may also pose significant legal and health risks. Finally, assuming all patients are healthy disregards the individual variations in health status and can result in inadequate patient care. Therefore, reviewing the patient's medical history stands out as the most responsible and essential practice.