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History of LISTERINE®

LISTERINE® is the most studied mouthrinse on the planet. Learn more about our rich history, below.

Family pack shot of many Listerine products arranged together in a line
Plaque biofilm
1879

Dr. Joseph Lawrence and pharmacist Jordan Lambert developed LISTERINE® as an antiseptic for use in surgical procedures.

Old Listerine bottle
1895

LISTERINE® was marketed to dentists after studies showed that it was also good for killing germs found in the mouth.

Old Listerine ad
1960s

Plaque recognized as the primary cause of caries and periodontal disease.

LISTERINE® COOL MINT™ with CAN flag
1993

LISTERINE® Cool Mint® is launched in Canada.

Two Listerine mouthwash bottles with dental association logo
1994

LISTERINE® Cool Mint® and Original is awarded the CDA Seal for efficacy in preventing and reducing gingivitis.

Image of Listerine Total Care bottle
2008

LISTERINE® Total Care all-in-one mouthwash.

Listerine blue mouthwash bottle
2010

LISTERINE® Total Care for Sensitive Teeth is launched to provide patients with an all-in-one LISTERINE® mouthrinse that includes a desensitizing agent that builds protection against sensitive teeth.

Listerine total care purple mouthwash bottle
2011

LISTERINE® Total Care Zero launched in Canada to provide an alcohol-free option to patients who want the all-in-one benefits of LISTERINE® Total Care but with less intense taste.

Listerine green mouthwash bottle
2011

LISTERINE® Zero launches in Canada to provide an alcohol-free option to patients who want the benefit of an effective oral antiseptic but with a less intense taste.

Family shot of LISTERINE® Ultraclean category
2013

LISTERINE® launches the LISTERINE® UltraClean line of multi-benefit rinses: anti-cavity, anti-tartar, and anti-stain to provide patients with the option of an antiseptic rinse plus one other oral care benefit.