elmex Kariesschutz Professional toothpaste

Elmex is a renowned oral care brand that originated in Switzerland in 1962. It was developed by the GABA Group (Goldene Apotheke Basel), a company with roots dating back to a 17th-century pharmacy in Basel. The brand became famous for pioneering the use of amine fluoride (olaflur) technology, which was developed in collaboration with Professor Hans R. Mühlemann at the University of Zurich to provide superior protection against dental caries.

In 2004, the American multinational Colgate-Palmolive acquired the GABA Group for approximately $841 million, integrating Elmex into its global portfolio. While the brand retains its Swiss heritage and professional image, its products are now manufactured in multiple locations to serve global markets. Key production facilities are located in Poland and Germany, though some specific lines or components may still be produced in Switzerland or other regions.

Today, Elmex is managed by CP GABA GmbH (a subsidiary of Colgate-Palmolive) in German-speaking markets and remains a leading recommendation among dentists for enamel protection and cavity prevention.