What condition can arise from sensitive teeth during whitening treatments?

Sensitive teeth during whitening treatments can lead to thermal hypersensitivity. This condition occurs when the tooth's nerve endings become more easily stimulated due to the chemicals in whitening agents, which can temporarily open up the tubules in the dentin layer of the tooth. As a result, temperature changes—either from hot or cold substances—can cause discomfort or pain.

This sensitivity is a common side effect of whitening treatments because the products used often contain bleaching agents like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide that can penetrate the enamel and dentin. It's important for individuals undergoing whitening treatments to be aware of this possibility, so they can manage it effectively, perhaps by using desensitizing toothpaste or taking breaks between treatments to allow their teeth to recover.

Other options, such as dental caries or chipped enamel, are not directly associated with the process of tooth whitening. Tooth discoloration is actually the intended outcome of the treatment rather than a condition that arises from it.