Why do sealants commonly fail in dental applications?

Sealants often fail in dental applications primarily due to contamination. Contaminants such as saliva, blood, or moisture can interfere with the bond between the sealant material and the tooth surface. For sealants to effectively adhere and function, the enamel must be clean and dry during application. Any presence of contaminants can hinder the proper curing process and reduce the sealant's capability to protect the tooth from decay by creating gaps or incomplete coverage.

While issues like material fatigue and poor adhesion can contribute to sealant failure over time, contamination during the application process is a more immediate and critical factor that can compromise the initial bond. Insufficient cure time, while relevant, typically does not address the underlying cause of failure as directly as contamination, since it is usually more about ensuring application conditions are met rather than the properties of the sealant itself.