10 Oldest Toothpaste Brands in the World

Brushing our teeth is a daily ritual, but did you know that it had a fascinating history? 

Toothpaste and especially certain toothpaste brands has become synonymous with the term oral hygiene. There are many oral health products, commercial and otherwise, available today. Even though toothpaste and its brands have evolved, would you be able to believe that most of us use the same toothpaste brands that were first launched more than a century ago? 

So, Join us on our dental adventure as we travel through history to find out the 10 Oldest toothpaste brands in the world. 

10. Close-Up

Photo Source: Close-Up

Close-Up, is the toothpaste that’s all about getting close and personal with your dental care! Introduced in 1967, it made a splash with its red and white gel formula which was not popular at the time and different from the traditional toothpastes. Their focus and appeal were on freshness, whitening, and a youthful appeal, close-up continues to brighten smiles and freshen their breath worldwide. 

Did you know?

With its focus on freshness, Close-Up has been associated with encouraging fresh and confident kisses. Its catchy slogan, “Get Close-Up, Don’t let bad breath ruin your moment!” reinforces the idea that a fresh and confident smile can lead to more intimate moments.

9.  Rembrandt Toothpaste

Photo Source: Wikipedia

Since its launch in 1967, Rembrandt Toothpaste has been synonymous with dazzling smiles and effective teeth-whitening solutions. Rembrandt revolutionized the way we approach oral hygiene, offering a clear gel formula enriched with mouthwash and micro whiteners for freshness and white teeth.

Did you know?

Rembrandt Toothpaste was named after the renowned Dutch artist Rembrandt van Rijn, symbolizing the brand’s commitment to creating beautiful smiles.

8. Elmex

Photo Source: Wikipedia

A pioneer in dental care innovation, Elmex was introduced in the year 1962. Developed by a Swiss dentist Dr. Heinz Neumark, Elmex revolutionized dental care with its breakthrough amine fluoride formula. This toothpaste not only helps prevent cavities but also strengthens tooth enamel, giving you the confidence to eat whatever tooth-decaying food you want to eat.  

Did you know?

Elmex was the first toothpaste to contain amine fluoride, a compound known for its exceptional cavity-fighting abilities.

7. Gleem

Photo Source: Wikipedia

Gleem is an American brand of oral hygiene products, that has been lighting up smiles since 1952. Owned by Procter & Gamble, it started as a dental cream competitor and has since become a popular choice for toothpaste. From toothpaste to electric toothbrushes, Gleem continues to shine as a go-to brand, encouraging everyone to embrace their smiles with pride.  

Did you know?

Gleem was the first toothpaste to be sold in an aluminum tube, a packaging innovation that revolutionized the dental care industry.

6. Pepsodent

Photo Source: Wikipedia

Pepsodent, an American brand of toothpaste, has a history dating back to its introduction in 1915 by the Pepsodent Company of Chicago. Its original formula contained pepsin, a digestive agent designed to break down food deposits on teeth. The brand gained popularity rapidly but faced stiff competition from other well-promoted toothpaste brands, leading to a decline in sales. However, Pepsodent’s parent company Unilever continued to market it as a “value brand” in discount stores. 

Over the years, Pepsodent has been revived with new ad slogans and endorsements, finding success in various international markets under different names like P/S in Vietnam. Despite the difficulties, Pepsodent remains an important part of dentistry history, reminding us of its memorable tagline, “You’ll wonder where the yellow went when you brush your teeth with Pepsodent!”

Did you know?

Advertising executive Claude C. Hopkins coined Pepsodent’s renowned tagline “You’ll wonder where the yellow went when you brush your teeth with Pepsodent!” making it one of the most remembered toothpaste slogans in history.

5. Ipana

Photo Source: Internet Archive

Ipana made its debut in 1901. Developed by Bristol-Myers Company, Ipana quickly became a well-known name in oral hygiene products. Its early marketing campaigns featured an animated character named “Bucky Beaver”, which became synonymous with the brand. Bucky Beaver was cheerful and toothy and promoted toothpaste with catchy jiggles, capturing the hearts of consumers across America. 

Although Ipana is no longer as widely available as it once was, it remains a beloved memory for those who fondly recall the friendly beaver and the promise of a bright, healthy smile. 

Did you know?

Ipana’s catchy jingle “Brusha, brusha, brusha!” became so popular that it was featured in a 1970s Grease, further boosting the brand’s popularity.

4. Sozodont

Photo Source: Wikipedia

A historical oral hygiene brand that traces its roots back to 1859 when druggist Rosewell Van Buskirk created it in New Jersey. The name “Sozodont” is derived from the Greek words “sozo,” meaning “to save” and “dontia” meaning “teeth.” Initially introduced as Sozodont tooth powder, it gained popularity, and by 1864, it was available through the firm Hall & Ruckel in New York. Sozodont evolved with dental treatment, becoming toothpaste in the early twentieth century. 

Although it is no longer widely used today, Sozodont holds a unique place in the history of oral care, representing a bygone era of dental hygiene products. 

Did you know?

Sozodont was endorsed by dentists and physicians, adding credibility to its claims of preventing tartar and decay.

3. Dr. Lyon’s Tooth Powder

Photo Source: Knick of time

Dr. Lyon’s Tooth Powder was once stapled n households, capturing hearts with its effective dental care properties. Introduced in the late 1800s, Dr. Lyon’s Tooth powder quickly gained popularity for its ability to brighten smiles and promote oral hygiene. With its unique blend of natural ingredients, this tooth powder became a go-to choice for those seeking a reliable and gentle dental care solution. 

Did you know?

Dr. Lyon’s Tooth Powder was once advertised as being “more sanitary than paste” due to its powder form and was considered a premium dental care product during its time.

2. Kalodont

Photo Source: Wikipedia

Kalodont is a toothpaste brand that first emerged in Austria-Hungary in 1887.  With over a century of existence, Kalodont has a rich history in the world of oral hygiene. It was one of the pioneering toothpaste brands, catering to the dental needs of people during a time when dental care was still evolving. Although its popularity has waned over the years, Kalodont holds a special place in dental history as one of the earliest commercially available toothpaste.

Did you know?

Kalodont was one of the first toothpaste brands to introduce fluoride as an active ingredient, emphasizing its commitment to dental health.

1. Colgate

Photo Source: Wikipedia

Colgate, a beloved household name and the oldest-known toothpaste brand in the world. This dental giant we all know and trust, made its debut in 1873, sold in humble glass jars. It quickly became a household name, and in 1896, it added a stroke of brilliance by introducing toothpaste in collapsible tubes. A true pioneer in dental care!

Did you know?

The brand name “Colgate” was derived from its founder, William Colgate, who started the business in 1806. It’s incredible to believe that the brand’s name hasn’t changed in almost two centuries!

Final Thought

Learning about the history of these toothpaste brands helps us recognize the fact that they had a whole life before us. These brands and their products have been around for often centuries. Such toothpaste brands have not only evolved over the years but have also become an integral part of our daily lives. Whether it’s the focus on freshness and whitening or the use of unique ingredients, these brands continue to brighten smiles and promote healthy dental care practices. 

So, the next time you squeeze that dollop of toothpaste onto your brush, take a moment to reminisce about the rich history and impact of these ten oldest toothpaste brands in the world.