I brush my teeth so hard and my gums start bleeding. i can't stop myself. help?

Don't do it: Plaque does not require "hard brushing" to be removed. A soft brush, softened even further with warm/hot water will adequately remove plaque if the teeth are brushed properly. Have a dentist/hygieniest demonstrate proper techniques. If you can't break the habit, you should see your primary care doc for referral to a clinical psychologist to help you deal with your habits.

Fear: You are fearful that if you are not brushing very hard your teeth are not clean and you will loose them. That cannot be further from the truth. Brushing and flossing your teeth correctly will maintain their health and not cause damage.. Excessive brushing can cause irritation, recession, abrasions, and bone loss. See a therapist if this phobia is something that you cannot overcome on your own.

Soft Brush in Circle: 1) use a softmanual toothbrush. 2) place the brush where the teeth and the gum join together. 3) move the brush in circles. 4) do all teeth this way on the face side and the tongue side. 5) initially the gum may bleed because you are cleaning out an open sore, however this bleeding will stop and the tissue will now begin to heal. 6) follow up with a water pik spraying water in circles same places.

Dental Visit: It is better to have a dental check up regularly if you haven't seen your dentist recently. Soft tissues maybe suffering from certain form of periodontal disease.

Practice: Try holding your toothbrush with 3 fingers. Really, it will be difficult to generate a lot of force but will give you the control you need. Be sure you are also using a soft brush and review with your dentist or hygienist proper technique so you brush your teeth up and around the gum line, being careful not to traumatize tissue.