Dunno about dentists using salt. They have a background in many aspects of healthcare in general so are aware of the hazards of too much salt in your system.

Bears like the taste of toothpaste I believe. Ask one why?

Baking soda is a good short term measure for decontaminating your teeth & gums and whitening them up, but a dentist friend says she always advises against it when asked for an opinion as prolonged use attacks the enamel itself, and can irritate the gums. Although some people have a higher resistance than others. (if your next drink is slightly acidic, it should help remove the residue too.)

Only know this because I asked her recently, I don't like Corsodyl mouthwash so was looking for a toothpaste that has the same active ingredients.