Do we really NEED to brush with toothpaste?

In a forum I belong to, this subject was brought up causing quite a debate. I've always thought that you needed toothpaste in order to properly clean your teeth... Otherwise, it would be like taking a shower without using soap. I also heard somewhere that brushing without toothpaste could give you gum disease because it pushes the plaque and bacteria up into your gums.

However, the arguments to that idea were basically saying that all toothpaste really does is freshen your breath.

So, I researched it. I wasn't able to find ANYTHING that supports my idea. :( But, I did find a TON of resources that support the idea that you don't need toothpaste (good to know), and that some toothpastes can actually harm your teeth.

Here is an excerpt I found on the subject off of an actual dentists website:

Toothpaste is not necessary for cleaning the teeth. Toothpaste masks odors as you brush your teeth. Toothpaste may make your breath feel fresher. If you choose to use toothpaste, select one that carries ADA Seal of Approval. Materials such as baking soda and salt may be used as a safe alternative to commercial toothpaste.

Some manufactures claim that their product whitens the teeth and, indeed, may do so initially. However, tooth whiteners may scratch the enamel of the teeth, creating more space for bacterial to grow. These are not recommended for use without careful professional guidance and instruction.***

So, there you have it. You don't NEED to use toothpaste to properly brush your teeth.

***excerpt taken from http://www.drdavidjones.com/qa.htm