dental care
German Dental Care
German dental care brands rely on formulations and active ingredients that differ significantly from what is available in North American stores. Elmex uses amine fluoride (Olaflur) — a compound developed in Europe and not found in US toothpaste. Meridol, Aronal, Odol, Odol-med 3, Dr. Best and Blend-a-med round out a selection of trusted products from German pharmacy shelves. If you have been searching for your preferred German toothpaste abroad, this is where to find it.
Amine Fluoride: The European Advantage
Most toothpastes sold in the US and Canada use sodium fluoride or stannous fluoride as their active ingredient. German dental care leader Elmex takes a different approach with amine fluoride (Olaflur), which forms a particularly durable protective layer on tooth enamel. This compound was developed specifically for the European market and remains unavailable in North American retail. Elmex and its sister brand Aronal — designed for morning use — have been staples in German bathrooms for decades.
Meridol and Gum Health
Meridol, also from the GABA/Colgate-Palmolive family, combines amine fluoride with stannous fluoride to target gum protection. It is one of the most recommended dental care lines by German dentists for patients with sensitive gums or early signs of gingivitis.
Classic German Oral Care Brands
Odol, introduced in 1893, was one of the world's first branded mouthwashes. Its concentrated formula — just a few drops per use — remains iconic. Odol-med 3 extends the brand into toothpaste, while Dr. Best is one of Germany's best-selling toothbrush brands, known for its flexible head design. Blend-a-med, Procter & Gamble's European oral care brand, rounds out the range.
What to Expect
Our dental care selection covers toothpaste, mouthwash and toothbrushes from the brands German consumers prefer. Stock up on products that are either completely unavailable or sold in reformulated versions outside of Europe.
FAQ
Q: Why is Elmex not available in the United States?
A: Elmex's active ingredient, amine fluoride (Olaflur), has not been submitted for FDA approval for the US market. It is widely used and clinically studied in Europe but remains exclusive to European formulations.
Q: What is the difference between Elmex and Aronal?
A: Both brands are made by the same manufacturer. Aronal is formulated for morning use with a focus on gum care, while Elmex is designed for evening use with emphasis on enamel protection. Many German consumers use both as a day-and-night system.
Q: Is Odol a mouthwash or a toothpaste?
A: Odol started as a concentrated mouthwash in 1893 and is still sold in that format. The line has since expanded to include Odol-med 3 toothpaste, which combines the Odol name with a full toothpaste formula.
Q: Are German toothpaste tubes compatible with standard toothbrush routines?
A: Yes. German toothpaste uses the same application method — a pea-sized amount on any standard toothbrush. Tube sizes are typically 75 ml, slightly smaller than the 4.0 oz (113 g) tubes common in the US.
