The etiology of extrinsic tooth discolorations due to chemical, plaque-preventive agents is not fully understood. However, information from experimental investigations point to at least 3 possible mechanisms. (A) Non-enzymatic browning reactions (Maillard reactions). (B) Formation of pigmented metal (Fe, Sn)-sulfides. (C) Reaction products of food and beverage constituents and chemical, plaque-preventive compounds. Available evidence indicates that browning (A) and formation of pigmented metal sulfides (B) are the most likely causes of these discolorations while dietary factors (C) may play a modifying rôle.