20 Weird Toothpaste Flavors Used Around the Globe
When you think of toothpaste, your mind probably jumps to classic mint. It’s the go-to flavor in much of the Western world and gives that instantly fresh, clean feeling. But beyond that familiar tingle lies a whole world of different flavors of toothpaste that reflect different cultures, ingredients, and priorities.
From spicy and earthy to fruity and floral, some flavors aim to heal, others aim to delight, and some just aim to get a laugh. Whether you’re curious about herbal remedies, traditional medicine, or novelty picks, there’s something for every type of brusher.
In this blog, we’re diving into an international mix of weird toothpaste flavors—some beloved, some bizarre, and all a reflection of how cultures approach oral care.
20 Different Flavors of Toothpaste from Around the World
Japan: Matcha, Yuzu, Wasabi, & Charcoal
Japan is famous for thinking outside the box when it comes to flavor—and toothpaste is no exception. Instead of defaulting to plain mint, Japanese toothpaste often leans into earthy, bright, or even spicy territory. This approach reflects the country’s broader wellness philosophy: balance, natural ingredients, and a thoughtful sensory experience.
- Matcha (green tea): A gently earthy flavor with antioxidant perks. Matcha isn’t just for lattes—it’s long been used in skincare and oral care for its anti-inflammatory properties. The flavor is subtle and soothing, with a hint of bitterness.
- Try it: Check out this matcha toothpaste from BEYOND.
- Yuzu: A bright, citrusy flavor that’s refreshing and aromatic. Yuzu toothpaste often smells like a spa day in a tube, offering a pop of zest that makes brushing feel like a little luxury.
- Try it: Boka offers a whitening toothpaste with charcoal, yuzu, and mint.
- Wasabi: Yes, seriously. It’s spicy and certainly not for everyone, but it taps into Japan’s love of bold, invigorating sensations. While more novelty than mainstream, wasabi toothpaste exists and has a cult following.
- Try it: Aesop’s wasabi toothpaste offers a one-of-a-kind brushing experience.
- Charcoal or Bamboo Salt: These ingredients are known for their detoxifying and whitening effects. They’re often found in natural and holistic Japanese brands that promote minimal foaming and gentle cleaning.
- Try it: This white tea and bamboo salt toothpaste may help with sensitive teeth/gums.
All in all, Japanese toothpaste trends prioritize fresh, calming, and sometimes surprising experiences—much like Japanese culture itself.
India: Neem, Clove, Miswak, & Tulsi
In India, oral care is deeply tied to Ayurvedic tradition, which emphasizes natural healing and balance within the body. That influence is strongly reflected in toothpaste formulations, which often rely on centuries-old ingredients known for their therapeutic properties.
- Neem: This bitter-tasting plant is famous for its antibacterial power. Neem twigs have long been used in rural India as a natural toothbrush, and modern neem toothpaste continues to tap into that legacy. It’s excellent for reducing plaque and inflammation.
- Try it: Theraneem’s neem toothpaste is a popular choice.
- Clove: Warm and slightly spicy, clove is known for its natural numbing effect, making it a go-to for people with sensitive teeth or gums. It also freshens breath and adds a comforting aroma.
- Try it: This clove and cardamon toothpaste from Radius includes neem extract as well.
- Miswak: Harvested from the Salvadora persica tree, miswak is one of the oldest known tools for oral hygiene. Its extract is now used in pastes for its ability to fight bacteria, reduce gum inflammation, and prevent cavities.
- Try it: This miswak toothpaste from Dabur is gentle on enamel.
- Tulsi (Holy Basil): Considered sacred in India, tulsi is often used for its anti-inflammatory and soothing qualities. It’s a common addition in all-natural toothpaste formulas that skip artificial additives.
- Try it: Dabur’s Tulsi toothpaste is anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory.
Most Indian toothpastes skip the bubbles and sweetness that Western users might expect. Instead, they favor potent herbal blends that prioritize oral health over taste. These toothpastes aren’t just hygiene products—they’re part of a daily wellness ritual.
Europe: Licorice, Salt, Eucalyptus, & Ratanhia Root
Across Europe, toothpaste often takes on a more functional, no-nonsense tone. You’ll find fewer sugary options and more herbal, botanical, and mineral-based formulas. Europeans tend to prefer flavors that feel “clean” or therapeutic—even if they’re a little intense.
- Licorice (Nordic countries): Especially popular in Scandinavia, this bold flavor is either loved or hated. Beyond taste, licorice root has been shown to reduce oral bacteria, making it a smart choice for people prioritizing gum health.
- Try it: This amarelli licorice toothpaste by Marvis gives a tingly sensation.
- Salt (Switzerland/Germany): Toothpaste with a salty tang might sound odd at first, but brands like Elmex and Weleda swear by mineral salts for promoting remineralization and reducing gum inflammation. It’s a flavor that might grow on you.
- Try it: Weleda’s salt toothpaste uses sea salt and gentle mineral cleansers.
- Eucalyptus (United Kingdom): Popular for its sharp, clean scent and soothing properties, eucalyptus is often used in natural toothpaste formulas. It leaves your mouth feeling ultra-fresh and is sometimes blended with mint for an extra burst of cool.
- Try it: Euthymol’s eucalyptus toothpaste has been used in Britain for generations.
- Ratanhia Root (Austria): This reddish plant root is used in natural formulas for its astringent and anti-inflammatory qualities. Often combined with myrrh or sage, it’s a favorite in European apothecary-style oral care.
- Try it: This Ratanhia toothpaste by Weleda is great for cleaning sensitive gums.
In Europe, toothpaste is often treated more like medicine than a minty treat. If you like your oral care straightforward and plant-powered, European brands offer some of the most interesting alternatives out there.
United States: Cinnamon, Vanilla, Bubblegum, & Novelty Flavors
In the U.S., brands have embraced different flavors of toothpaste as a way to cater to kids, adults, and novelty lovers alike. From classic comfort to straight-up silliness, there’s a flavor for just about everyone.
- Cinnamon: A longtime favorite that adds a little warmth to your brushing routine. It’s cozy, spicy, and often appeals to those who find mint too cold or intense.
- Try it: Crest’s cinnamon flavored toothpaste includes whitening properties.
- Vanilla Mint: A smooth, creamy spin on the traditional. Vanilla adds a dessert-like sweetness without veering into total novelty, offering something mellow yet refreshing.
- Try it: Check out this vanilla mint toothpaste by Poofy Organics.
- Bubblegum: A staple in kids’ dental care. It makes brushing fun (or at least more tolerable) and often comes with glittery gel textures or fun packaging.
- Try it: Crest’s bubblegum-flavored toothpaste for kids provides cavity protection.
- Novelty Flavors—Birthday Cake, Bacon, and Pickle: These weird toothpaste flavors are more for laughs than long-term use, but they exist—and they work! Think gag gifts, themed subscription boxes, or curious consumers who just want to try something different.
The American toothpaste aisle is a reflection of the country’s flavor diversity and marketing flair. From practical to playful, there’s no shortage of ways to keep things interesting while you care for your smile.
Southeast Asia & Beyond: Mango, Coconut, Clove Oil, & Betel Leaf
In tropical parts of the world, toothpaste often reflects the local landscape—both in terms of flavor and function. Southeast Asian brands in particular tend to blend natural fruit flavors with time-honored herbal remedies.
- Mango: A sweet, juicy favorite that’s sometimes paired with mint to create a refreshing yet fruity brush. Mango-flavored toothpaste is typically geared toward kids, but some natural brands use it to entice adults looking for something light and tropical.
- Try it: Hismile’s mango sorbet-flavored toothpaste is fresh and flavorful.
- Coconut: Valued for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, coconut is a popular ingredient in many natural oral care lines. Combined with mint or charcoal, it offers a clean, beachy flavor and a creamy texture.
- Try it: Dr. Ginger’s coconut oil toothpaste whitens teeth and freshens breath.
- Clove Oil: A mainstay across many parts of Asia, thanks to its numbing and antimicrobial effects. You’ll find it in everything from old-school apothecary brands to modern natural pastes.
- Try it: The Colgate brand offers a sensitive toothpaste with clove oil.
- Betel Leaf and Herbal Oils: In some regions, toothpaste includes ingredients inspired by traditional remedies, such as betel leaf, ginger, or camphor oils—all selected for their ability to freshen breath and support gum health.
- Try it: Bentodent offers a calcium bentonite clay toothpaste with betel leaf.
This region’s toothpaste flavors aren’t just pleasant—they often serve a purpose rooted in cultural traditions and holistic wellness. The blends tend to be bold, botanical, and not overly processed—making them a refreshing change from sugary pastes.
Why Different Countries Use Different Flavors of Toothpaste
Toothpaste flavors aren’t random—they’re carefully shaped by local tastes, available ingredients, and cultural values. For some regions, flavor is about comfort and familiarity. In others, it’s all about function: What can this ingredient do for my gums, breath, or enamel?
For example, in countries with strong herbal traditions like India and Thailand, functional plants such as neem or clove oil are front and center. In places like Japan and the U.S., flavor trends tend to shift with popular health movements or novelty culture. Some flavors, like matcha or coconut, reflect a wider trend toward natural and wellness-focused personal care.
Marketing also plays a big role. Kid-friendly flavors like bubblegum or mango help make brushing feel more like a treat than a task, while minimal, botanical options are often designed for adults who want something soothing, subtle, and clean.
So whether a toothpaste tastes like cupcakes, licorice, or bamboo salt, you can bet there’s a story—and a strategy—behind it. And while some might seem like weird toothpaste flavors to you, they’re often rooted in centuries of tradition or tailored to specific user needs.
Would You Try Any of These Toothpaste Flavors from Around the World?
Toothpaste isn’t just toothpaste—it’s personal, cultural, and sometimes even a little quirky. And with so many weird toothpaste flavors to choose from, it’s easier than ever to find something that makes brushing a little more fun.
Whether you’re curious about weird toothpaste flavors or exploring toothpaste flavors around the world, there’s no shortage of variety out there. Just remember—whatever your toothpaste tastes like, what matters most is that you’re using it regularly and brushing well.
At Tedford Family Dentistry, we’re big fans of anything that keeps you brushing and smiling. Got a favorite weird toothpaste flavor? Thinking about trying something new? Bring it up at your next appointment—we’d love to hear what’s on your tube.
Whatever your flavor, we’re here to help you keep smiling.