I have never tried bar soap for brushing, mostly because I no longer use bar soap. However, I do alternate brushing with a homemade tooth powder made of equal amounts of baking soda, Himalayan mined Sea Salt and pascalite clay, and Miracle II Neutralizer gel with a drop of Miracle II soap. I like the powder because it is mineral rich and whitens my teeth better than any toothpaste I've ever tried. Since I was somewhat concerned about it being abrasive I alternate with the Neutralizer/soap formula. I wish I had started this years ago, it has sure made a difference with the whiteness of my teeth and general gum health. Along with oil pulling, it has made a huge difference in oral health.