Why is it important to review a patient's medical history before coronal polishing?

Reviewing a patient's medical history before coronal polishing is crucial primarily to identify any allergies that may affect the procedure. Allergies to certain dental materials, anesthetics, or even ingredients commonly found in polishing agents can lead to adverse reactions during or after the treatment. Understanding a patient's allergies ensures that the practitioner can select safe materials and processes, thereby avoiding potential complications that could arise from allergenic responses.

Additionally, while some options touch upon important aspects of patient care, they do not directly address the immediate safety and health concerns pertinent to coronal polishing. For example, while knowing about recent dental work may be useful, the primary focus in this context should be on the patient's safety regarding allergies. Therefore, recognizing and reviewing all relevant medical history, especially allergies, is fundamental to providing safe, effective dental care during coronal polishing.