Despite the vast literature on the effects of root canal irrigants on the dentin characteristics, the precise effects of clinically relevant irrigation sequences remain unclear. In this review, we systematically dissect the role of different sequential irrigation approaches that are used in clinical endodontics. Using a systematic search strategy, we attempt to answer the question: ‘Which irrigating sequence has the most deleterious effects on dentin structure and properties?’ The effect of irrigants on the dentin composition and mechanical properties have been reviewed. A wide variety of concentrations, duration and techniques have been employed to characterize the effects of chemicals on dentin properties, thus making it impossible to draw guidelines or recommendations of irrigant sequences to be followed clinically. It was apparent that all the studied irrigation sequences potentially result in some deleterious effects on dentin such as decrease in the flexural strength, microhardness, modulus of elasticity and inorganic content and organic-inorganic ratio of the dentin. However, the literature still lacks comprehensive investigations to compare the deleterious effect of different irrigation sequences, using a wide variety of qualitative and quantitative methods. Such investigations are essential to make clinical recommendations and strategize efforts to minimize chemically-induced damage to dentin characteristics.

This case report describes a technique in which endodontic treatment and permanent indirect restoration were completed in the same clinical appointment with the aid of a computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) system. Two patients were diagnosed with irreversible pulpitis of the mandibular first molar. After access preparation, root canals were located, irrigation was performed until bleeding ceased, and the coronal tooth structure was prepared for indirect restoration. Then, utilizing an interim 3-mm build-up of the endodontic access cavity, a hemi-arch digital scan was performed with an intraoral scanner. Subsequent to digital scanning, restoration design was performed simultaneously with the endodontic procedure. The root canals were shaped using the Race system under irrigation with 2.5% sodium hypochlorite followed by root canal filling. The pulp chamber was subsequently filled with a 3-mm-thick composite resin restoration mimicking the interim build-up previously utilized to facilitate block milling in the CAD/CAM system. Clinical try-in of the permanent onlay restoration was followed by acid etching, application of a 5th generation adhesive, and cementation of the indirect restoration. Once the restoration was cemented, rubber dam isolation was removed, followed by occlusal adjustment and polishing. After 2 years of follow-up, the restorations were esthetically and functionally satisfactory, without complications.