Creating a healthier and brighter future, one smile at a time

Creating a healthier and brighter future, one smile at a time

From the start of the company in 1806, our goal has always been to improve oral health at the largest possible scale. We have been doing so, not only by developing the best products and solutions for your smile,  but also by providing access to oral healthcare and education around it to as many people as possible, while also doing our utmost to limit our environmental impact.

Woman medical professional smiling candidly
Who we are

We are the global leader in oral health – the most trusted brand in the world. With more patented innovations than anyone else in the category, we have the largest partnership with dental professionals, and the longest-standing oral health outreach and education program. 

Male dentist sittin talking to a patient sitting in his dentist chair
Our belief

We believe that everyone deserves a future to smile about.

Two young girls in uniform mimicking toothbrushing with carboard brushes
Our purpose

Our purpose is to improve oral health across the globe.

Hand holding a lab dish that contains a mint leaf
Our promise

Our promise is to create smiles that unleash the power in each of us, and therefore unlock a better future.

How we create healthier smiles for all

All of our science, expertise, knowledge of oral health, and our partnership with the dental profession and organizations is in service to helping everyone do the best for their smile and the best for the planet too.

Creating a  healthier tomorrow

SCIENCE & INNOVATION

Changing the world, one breakthrough at a time

Our team of scientific experts develop cutting-edge technology to create the best products and solutions for your smile.

Bright Smiles, Bright Futures Program

ORAL HEALTH COMMITMENT

Leading the way for healthy smiles across the world

Our goal is that every person not only knows how to care for their smile but also has access to oral care products and services.

Behind the red we're green

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

Behind the red & white, we’re green

We recognize the impact we have on the environment and do our utmost to protect the planet.

Our history

The small soap and candle business that William Colgate began in New York City early in the 19th century is now, more than 200 years later, a truly global company serving hundreds of millions of consumers worldwide. Throughout this history, Colgate people and Colgate values have been at the heart of our success.

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1806

‌The company is founded by William Colgate.

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1873

‌Colgate starts selling toothpaste in jars.

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1896

‌Colgate introduces toothpaste in a collapsible tube.

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1930

‌Colgate is the first brand to receive the American Dental Association’s Seal of Approval on Colgate Ribbon Dental Cream.

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1968

‌Colgate toothpaste is reformulated with MFP Fluoride to fight cavities and Ultrabright Whitening toothpaste is launched.

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1987

‌Colgate introduces first oral rinse (mouthwash) to effectively prevent tartar buildup.

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1992

‌With development of a new process to control gingivitis, Colgate Total toothpaste is first marketed.

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2004

‌Introduction of Colgate 360º manual toothbrush.

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2011

‌Colgate Optic White brand is launched with the first toothpaste formula to contain a professionally recommended whitening agent.

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Present

‌Colgate sells its products in over 200 countries and territories worldwide.