If a sealant was lost within the first couple of months after application, which would likely be the cause of failure?

When a sealant is lost shortly after application, operator error is often a significant factor contributing to the failure. This can include issues such as not adequately cleaning and preparing the tooth surface before application, which is essential for ensuring proper adhesion. If the tooth surface is not thoroughly cleaned to remove plaque, debris, or moisture, the sealant may not bond effectively, leading to its premature loss.

Additionally, improper application techniques, such as not observing the correct viscosity of the sealant or failing to adequately spread the sealant into the pits and fissures, can also result in sealant failure. Thus, the training and skill of the operator play a crucial role in the success of the sealant application process.

While other factors such as incorrect sealant material, improper patient hygiene, and insufficient light curing can lead to sealant failure, the immediate loss within the first couple of months points more strongly to operator-related issues as the primary cause.