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Top 12 Best Toothbrushes for Receding Gums

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Written by Andrew Le, MD.
Medically reviewed by
Last updated July 29, 2024

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In the context of oral hygiene, choosing the appropriate brush plays a vital role. When the gum starts to recede, it becomes very crucial to look for the right toothbrush. Gingival recession can lead to the sensations of discomfort in the teeth and can lead to the loss of teeth, if ignored. Selecting the kind of toothbrush that best suits one can go a long way in avoiding additional harm to the gums.

When deciding on the best toothbrush for receding gums, the most important aspect to consider is the bristle type. The brushes used must be soft in order not to aggravate the condition of the gums further. The use of hard bristles can result in damaging the gums or even worsening the situation by causing the gums to peel back. Also, a toothbrush with a small head is useful in cleaning the mouth because it can access the hard-to-reach spaces between the teeth.

Top 3 Best Toothbrushes for Receding Gums

  1. usmile Y10 Pro Electric Toothbrush with 24/7 Smart Screen
  2. Nimbus Extra Soft Toothbrushes
  3. GuruNanda Butter On Gums Toothbrush

We know how critical it is to take care of the gums when they begin to shrink or pull back. Finding the appropriate toothbrush can help reduce the additional harm and assist in the recovery of the affected gums. That is why we have prepared a list of the best toothbrushes for receding gums and a detailed guide on how to choose the right one. Here is our list of the best toothbrushes that our researchers and testers have chosen for you because of their effectiveness. Continue to learn how to select the right toothbrush for your gums and, thus, your overall health.

usmile Y10 Pro Electric Toothbrush with 24/7 Smart Screen

The Editor's Choice

Experience dental care redefined! The USmile Y10 Pro Electric Toothbrush seamlessly merges cutting-edge tech and practicality, elevating your oral hygiene game. Step into the future of dental care – exceed expectations with innovation and excellence. Upgrade to the USmile Y10 Pro for a superior smile.

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Here is an advanced electric toothbrush that can help improve your oral care regimen when you choose the uSmile Y10 Pro Electric Toothbrush. The features include a 24/7 Smart Screen, responsive brushing, pressure, smart features as well as Smart Brushing for complete oral care. This smartphone lasts for about six months on a single charge and hence fits the description of a productivity powerhouse that works pretty well and does not require frequent charging.

Pros:

  • Cutting-edge 24/7 Smart Screen for real-time feedback
  • Responsive brushing technology for personalized cleaning
  • Smart pressure control to protect gums and enamel
  • Extended battery life with a single charge lasting six months

Cons:

  • Initial investment cost may be higher compared to basic electric toothbrushes
  • Limited availability of replacement brush heads in certain regions
  • Advanced features may require a learning curve for some users

The newest model from USmile, the Y10 Pro Electric Toothbrush, guarantees to integrate functionality and simplicity into a dental care tool. Welcome the future of oral care with a toothbrush that is not only good but great. Level up to the USmile Y10 Pro, where technology merges with the best oral hygiene solution.

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If you are wondering which toothbrush is safe for your gums and teeth, the Nimbus Extra Soft Toothbrushes could just fit the bill.

Pros

  • The Nimbus Toothbrush uses Microfine Technology which makes it extra soft and gentle on your gums and teeth.
  • The bristles are durable and absorb less water, which allows the brush to maintain its shape longer than standard Nylon bristles.
  • The toothbrush was invented by a periodontist, so you can be sure that it's designed to create the safest brushing experience for your teeth and gums.

Cons

  • The toothbrush might not be suitable for those who prefer a firmer toothbrush.
  • Some users might find the bristles too soft.
  • The colors included in the pack may vary, so you might not get the colors you prefer.

We tested the Nimbus Extra Soft Toothbrushes and noted that they performed well. The toothbrush incorporates Microfine Technology which encompasses a double layer of bristles to provide ultimate tenderness and solidity. While the long single-end tapered fine bristles are designed to penetrate areas that are unreachable by the normal bristles, the other short end-rounded bristles are there to assist and enhance plaque removal.

For instance, the Nimbus bristles are less porous than Nylon bristles and can hold less water, so the brush does not lose its shape easily. Furthermore, the bristles do not degrade from chemical and enzymatic oral solutions, so you are likely to use Nimbus for longer than other standard toothbrushes.

The toothbrush was developed by a periodontist and is safe for people with sensitive gums and teeth. The Nimbus Microfine Technology has been tested by dentists, and as for the Nimbus brushes, the conclusion is obvious—this is the best brush you can ever use.

The Regular Nimbus features a medium-sized brush head, which makes it possible to be used as an every day brush for an adult. This value pack includes 5 brushes, so everyone in the family will have a brush ready for use!The frequent travelers may also set aside several as their travel brushes only.

All in all, if you’re searching for a toothbrush that is gentle on the gums and teeth, the Nimbus Extra Soft Toothbrushes could be the best bet.

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There is one GuruNanda Butter On Gums Toothbrush that is safe for those whose gums are tender and delicate.

Pros

  • The ultra-soft bristles are gentle on your gums and teeth.
  • The multi-directional bristles clean deeper and better than other brushes.
  • The ergonomic handle provides comfort and ease of use.

Cons

  • The bristles might be too soft for some users who prefer a firmer brush.
  • The brush head is smaller than some other toothbrushes on the market.
  • The brush cap might not fit securely on the brush head.

I have been using the GuruNanda Butter On Gums Toothbrush for several weeks and I found them to be quite effective in cleaning the teeth gently. The bristles are especially gentle on the gums and we discovered that we do not suffer from sore gums as often as before after brushing with this brush.

The multiple bristles, oriented in all directions, make it easy to reach all parts of the mouth. We noticed that the teeth feel cleaner and shiny after use. The ergonomically designed handle is smooth to grip and offers a good grip for efficient brushing.

The only drawback that we found is that the bristles might not be firm enough for some individuals who would prefer a stiffer brush. Furthermore, the brush head is not as large as that of other toothbrushes in the market which could take some time to get accustomed to. Last but not least, it is not easy to fix the brush cap back on the brush head which may be of inconvenience when traveling.

In conclusion, GuruNanda Butter On Gums Toothbrush is a perfect toothbrush for people with sensitive gums who are looking for a soft but good quality toothbrush.

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The Nimbus Extra Soft Toothbrushes are best suited for people with receding gums and highly sensitive teeth.

Pros

  • The Microfine Technology provides unique softness and stability for the bristles, making it gentle on gums and teeth.
  • The toothbrush is durable and maintains its shape longer than standard nylon bristles.
  • The compact size head is perfect for individuals with small mouths and frequent travelers.

Cons

  • The handle is made of clear, hard plastic that may be difficult to grip for some users.
  • The colors included in the pack may vary.
  • The toothbrush is manual and does not have any additional features such as a timer or pressure sensor.

Both of us have personally used Nimbus Extra Soft Toothbrushes and can confirm that the bristles are suitable to remove plaque, and they do not cause any irritation to the gums. The two-level bristles are tough and soft, which gives them a great texture that can clean areas that could not be reached by normal bristles. We understand that toothbrushes are strong and can be used for a longer period of time as compared to the other common toothbrushes.

We also like that a toothbrush was invented by a periodontist and is used by dental specialists. As a result, most people are of the opinion that it is the best toothbrush for those people with sensitive gums and teeth. This compact size head will especially suit those people with small mouths and those who travel a lot. The set includes 5 brushes, which is more than enough for the whole family or can be used as different sets for those who travel.

All in all, Nimbus Extra Soft Toothbrushes are thoroughly recommended for users who have receding gums and sensitive teeth. It is a high quality and mild toothbrush that will give a safer brushing.

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If you are in need of a very effective electric toothbrush that has all the sophisticated features, then the Bitvae R2 Rotating Electric Toothbrush should do the trick.

Pros

  • The Bitvae R2 electric toothbrush has a unique windmill design and arc-cut bristles which remove 400% more plaque than a normal manual toothbrush.
  • With 8 replacement toothbrush heads, you can use this toothbrush for up to 2 years.
  • The toothbrush features 5 modes for various oral care needs including Clean, Sensitive, White, Gum Care, and Tongue.

Cons

  • The toothbrush tends to turn off on its own.
  • The travel case does not hold the toothbrush with the attachment on it and the cap on the brush head.
  • The description states USB-C charging, but it comes with a circular jack plug charging connector.

In this post, we would like to share our experience of using the Bitvae R2 electric toothbrush for several weeks. This product removes 4x more plaque than a normal manual toothbrush, due to the powerful motor, windmill rotation, and arc-cut bristles.

The toothbrush is provided with 8 additional toothbrush heads, which will suffice for 2 years usage. We like that it has 5 features for different oral hygiene needs: Clean, Sensitive, White, Gum Care, and Tongue.

The toothbrush also includes a pressure sensor that can be seen and ensures the health of gums. The pressure indication will turn red to alert you that you are applying a lot of pressure than required on the keyboard. The 2-minutes interval timer control that is incorporated in it beeps after every 30 seconds to encourage the user to rinse and move from one quadrant of the mouth to another.

This toothbrush has a 30-day battery life, much longer than any other toothbrush on the market. It only takes 3 hours of charging and the toothbrush has a carrying case for travelling so it can be used while on a trip or when on business.

In conclusion, the Bitvae R2 Rotating Electric Toothbrush is a great electric toothbrush that would suffice for anyone looking for a powerful electric toothbrush with extra features.

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The MOUTHWATCHERS Dr Plotkas Extra Soft Flossing Toothbrush is specifically designed for people with sensitive teeth and gums due to the following features;

Pros

  • The soft, multi-layered bristles are effective at breaking up plaque and sweeping away food residue, leaving your teeth looking brighter and feeling cleaner after every use.
  • The flossing bristles are 10x thinner than other bristles, allowing them to reach between teeth and deep into grooves where cavities form.
  • The toothbrush is naturally infused to eliminate the buildup and debris that linger on most toothbrushes, ensuring it's fresh and clean every time you use it.

Cons

  • Some users may prefer a toothbrush with firmer bristles for a more intense cleaning experience.
  • The bristles may wear out faster than traditional nylon bristles, requiring more frequent replacement.
  • The toothbrush may not be suitable for those who prefer an electric toothbrush for a more thorough cleaning.

Our impression of MOUTHWATCHERS Dr Plotkas Extra Soft Flossing Toothbrush is positive especially for those who have sensitive teeth and gums. The soft bristles are rather gentle and still efficient, while the flossing bristles are a godsend for cleaning the areas you might not be able to reach otherwise. This natural integration is quite helpful in keeping the toothbrush hygienic, and several colors make it convenient to differentiate between the members of the family. In summary, this is a fantastic toothbrush that we would easily recommend to anyone who wants to have a clean mouth without the discomfort that comes with vigorous brushing.

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Having a powerful and efficient toothbrush with soothing effects on the gums, the 7AM2M Sonic Electric Toothbrush is among the best.

Pros

  • The powerful sonic technology provides exceptional cleaning along the gum line and removes up to 125% more plaque than a manual toothbrush.
  • With 5 different brushing modes, you can customize your brushing experience to suit your needs and preferences.
  • The 6 replacement brush heads that come with the toothbrush are designed with a "W" shape to clean thoroughly and gently on your gums.

Cons

  • Some users may find the toothbrush to be a bit noisy.
  • The toothbrush head may be a bit large for some people's mouths.
  • The toothbrush may take a bit of time to get used to if you're used to a manual toothbrush.

As for cleaning power, we particularly noted the powerful capabilities of the 7AM2M Sonic Electric Toothbrush. We loved the toothbrush’s sonic technology which cleans right up to the gums without causing any discomfort and helped us to build even a healthier oral routine within weeks.

It is also important to note that this toothbrush has five modes of brushing. It allowed us to choose what was most convenient for us, in terms of brushing our teeth. The toothbrush that came with 6 replaceable brush heads was also a great addition. However, the “W” shape design is highly useful in cleaning the mouth and being gentle on the gum area.

The only con that we noticed about this toothbrush is that it is a bit noisy; however, we did not think it was very loud at all. The head of the toothbrush may also be a little big for some people's mouths, but we did not find it cumbersome. In conclusion to this review, we would recommend the 7AM2M Sonic Electric Toothbrush to any consumer who seeks to use a strong and efficient toothbrush that causes no harm to the gums.

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The Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 6100 Rechargeable Electric Power Toothbrush is one of our top picks for the best toothbrush for whitening your teeth and protecting your gums.

Pros

  • The toothbrush is gentle yet effective in whitening teeth.
  • The pressure sensor alerts you when you're brushing too hard, protecting your teeth and gums from harm.
  • The brush head replacement reminder ensures that you always know when to replace your brush head for an effective clean.

Cons

  • The toothbrush may be too expensive for some buyers.
  • The brush heads can be difficult to find in stores.
  • The toothbrush may be too powerful for those with sensitive teeth.

The Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 6100 Rechargeable Electric Power Toothbrush left teeth significantly whiter in the course of a week. The pressure sensor was also very advantageous because it prevented the user from applying excessive pressure that may cause harm to the teeth and gums. Another feature that I liked was the brush head replacement reminder which ensured that we had the right clean.

The toothbrush has three modes: Clean, White, and Gum Care. They discovered that the Clean mode was sufficient for everyday use, while the White and Gum Care modes were useful during events such as parties and when they needed to be more careful with their gums.

The toothbrush also has a two-minute timer with QuadPacer that let me know that I had brushed for the required time. Battery life is also good, holding up to two weeks on a single charge.

In conclusion, the Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 6100 Rechargeable Electric Power Toothbrush is a highly recommended toothbrush especially for anyone who wants to whiten his or her teeth while taking good care of the gums.

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For those people who want a gentle toothbrush for their gums and teeth, then the MOUTHWATCHERS Dr Plotkas Extra Soft Bristle Flossing Toothbrush is the best.

Pros

  • The extra soft bristles are gentle on sensitive teeth and gums.
  • The flossing bristles reach between teeth and under the gum line for a deep clean.
  • The silver-infused bristles eliminate buildup and debris.

Cons

  • Some users may find the bristles too soft for a thorough clean.
  • The variety pack colors may not be to everyone's liking.
  • The toothbrush may not be as durable as other options.

I have been using the MOUTHWATCHERS Dr Plotkas Extra Soft Bristle Flossing Toothbrush for a few weeks now and it has not disappointed as it effectively cleans the teeth gently. The soft bristles are very comfortable on sensitive teeth and gums, while the flossing bristles effectively clean between the tight contact points.

We also like that the bristles are embedded with silver as this will keep the toothbrush hygienic for the next use. We have four toothbrushes in the pack, and this means that we are well equipped for some time.

We like the gentle touch of the bristles. However, some users may complain that the bristles are not stiff enough to clean thoroughly. As for the color scheme of the variety pack, it may not be to everyone’s taste, but we don’t mind the bright and playful shades.

In conclusion, MOUTHWATCHERS Dr Plotkas Extra Soft Bristle Flossing Toothbrush is a great product that we endorse for individuals with sensitive teeth and gums.

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The EasyHonor Extra Soft Toothbrush for Sensitive Gums is one of the best, if not the best, toothbrush to take care of sensitive teeth and gums.

Pros

  • The ultra-soft bristles are gentle on sensitive gums and teeth, making it ideal for pregnant women, elderly people, and those with gum recessions.
  • The toothbrush's ergonomic design ensures a comfortable and firm grip, making it easy to use.
  • The ultra-fine bristles get into difficult corners and spaces between teeth and gum margins, producing 20 times more rich bubble and removing plaque more effectively.

Cons

  • The extra-soft bristles may not be suitable for those who prefer a firmer brush.
  • Some users may find it challenging to get used to the ultra-soft bristles.
  • The toothbrush may not be as effective at removing tough stains as firmer brushes.

The EasyHonor Extra Soft Toothbrush for Sensitive Gums was very effective in cleaning out our teeth without being too harsh to our gums. The bristles are very flexible and three times thinner than the other soft bristles making them very efficient when used on sensitive teeth and gums. In conclusion, the toothbrush has been designed with a comfortable and firm handle to give the user confidence while using it.

It reaches the hard to reach areas of the mouth and gum, with thinner bristles removing 20 times more rich bubble and plaque. Overall, we were satisfied with the effectiveness of the toothbrush in cleaning our teeth and gums without any sign of discomfort or irritation.

However, the extra-soft bristles may turn off those who want a firmer brush and others may take some time to adapt to the gentle handle of the ultra-soft bristles. Also, the toothbrush cannot be as effective in cleaning stained areas, especially when compared to firmer toothbrushes.

In conclusion, we highly endorse the EasyHonor Extra Soft Toothbrush for Sensitive Gums to anyone who requires a soft yet potent toothbrush that is ideal for sensitive teeth and gums.

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If you are in search of a high quality toothbrush that has the potential of enhancing gum health, the Aquasonic Black Series Ultra Whitening Toothbrush is our top choice.

Pros

  • The toothbrush has an ultra-powerful motor producing 40,000 vibrations per minute, which makes it highly effective at removing plaque and improving gum health.
  • It comes with 8 DuPont brush heads that are engineered to last for 3-4 months each, providing up to 2.5 years of use.
  • The toothbrush has a sleek, lightweight, and waterproof design, making it easy to use and perfect for travel.

Cons

  • Some users may find the toothbrush to be too powerful, especially if they have sensitive teeth or gums.
  • The toothbrush is relatively expensive compared to other electric toothbrushes on the market.
  • The toothbrush may take some time to get used to, especially if you are used to using a manual toothbrush.

The Aquasonic Black Series Ultra Whitening Toothbrush is definitely a product worth investing in for better oral hygiene. It has a strong motor and DuPont brush heads that help it to clean the teeth effectively and enhance the health of the gums. Secondly, the design of the product as well as the incorporation of a travel case also make it convenient to use especially for traveling.

The toothbrush also has the following special features: a lithium-ion battery, fast wireless charging, and four modes of brushing. It even has a smart vibrating notification timer to help the user know how long they have been brushing.

All in all, we strongly endorse the Aquasonic Black Series Ultra Whitening Toothbrush to anyone who would like to have the best brushing experience and healthier gums.

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If you're thinking about a toothbrush that will help you maintain your gum and enamel health and, at the same time, will clean 100% more plaque than a regular toothbrush, then Oral-B Gum and Sensitive Care Electric Toothbrush is what you need.

Pros

  • The toothbrush comes with a rechargeable handle, charger, 2 brush heads, and a travel case for convenience on the go.
  • The Bluetooth technology connects the toothbrush to the Oral-B App for personalized brushing routines and daily monitoring.
  • The in-handle brushing timer pulses every 30 seconds to let you know when to switch areas of your mouth.

Cons

  • Some users reported that the toothbrush is rough on their teeth, even on the sensitive mode.
  • The most gentle and softest brush head is not included in the package and must be bought separately.
  • The charge barely lasts 2 days, then takes nearly 3 days to fully charge again.

Hence, we have been using the Oral-B Gum and Sensitive Care Electric Toothbrush for some weeks now and I have to say that it works well. The toothbrush is very easy to navigate, and the various functions make it possible to get a brushing experience that suits our needs. Bluetooth connectivity is also a useful feature, which helps us monitor our brushing behavior and provides instant feedback.

Another advantage that should be mentioned is the recharging handle and a travel case which is very useful if you are traveling a lot. The toothbrush is very portable and the head of the brush is especially convenient to replace. However, we did note that the toothbrush used is a little hard on our teeth, even when in sensitive mode. It also needs to be purchased individually, using the fluffiest and softest brush head, which is rather inconvenient.

So, Oral-B Gum and Sensitive Care Electric Toothbrush is highly recommended to everyone who looks for a toothbrush that will help keep their gums and enamel healthy and clean more effectively than a manual toothbrush. But if you have extremely sensitive teeth, it will be better to use other methods.

Buying Guide

When searching for the right toothbrush that will suit the needs of receding gums, there are some factors to consider. Here are some features to look for when choosing a toothbrush:

Bristle Type

Power brushes are recommended for people who have receding gums since the soft bristles do not cause irritation. Interestingly, hard bristles work more harm to the gum and accelerate the recession rather than using soft brushes. In particular, look for the toothbrushes with the bristles labeled “soft” or “extra soft. ”

Head Size

A compact head in a toothbrush enables the brushing of the posterior teeth and the proximal areas of the anterior teeth. This can be especially important if you have receding gums in those areas.

Handle Design

When selecting a toothbrush, the handle of the toothbrush should be easy to grasp and should be able to be maneuvered easily. Certain designs have handles that are ergonomic or rubberized for those who find holding the toothbrush a problem.

Electric or Manual

It is possible to use both electric and manual toothbrushes and both are suitable for the task of cleaning teeth and gums. However, some people believe electric toothbrushes are easier to use and may reach the teeth better in terms of cleanliness.

Additional Features

Some toothbrushes come with certain conveniences, for instance, they have incorporated timers or pressure sensors. They can be useful for assisting you in brushing for the requisite two minutes as well as preventing over brushing.

In choosing a toothbrush, it is always wise to choose one that will fit the needs of the individual. With these features in mind you can be able to get a toothbrush that is not harsh on the gums and which will help in maintaining proper dental hygiene.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of toothbrush should be used when the gums are sensitive?

If you are suffering from sensitive gums, then you should use a soft bristled toothbrush. This will help to prevent inflammation or damage to the gum tissue. Find toothbrushes that have bristles that are marked as “soft” or “extra soft.” Another recommendation is the use of an electric toothbrush that features a variety of modes, including sensitivity, which is less aggressive for the gums.

Which is more effective for receding gums, a soft or hard toothbrush?

The best type of toothbrush recommended for use in treating receding gums is a soft one as the hard bristles exert pressure on the already compromised gum tissue. It is especially necessary to be soft with the teeth and gums because they can be sensitive, and it is better to press lightly and move the brush in circles.

If you have receding gums, should you brush the gums?

It is true that one does not need to stop brushing their gums even if they have some degree of recession. Nevertheless, one should be careful and should use only a soft toothbrush so that more harm does not occur. You may also want to use a toothbrush with a smaller head this would enable you cover and clean every part of your mouth.

Which electric toothbrush is recommended for use by individuals with gum diseases?

Some of the electric toothbrushes that are available in the market are meant for those people with gum disease. Choose the toothbrushes that have more functions like the gum care mode or sensitive mode. Some of the top models are Philips Sonicare DiamondClean, Oral-B Pro 7000, and Waterpik Complete Care.

How to use electric toothbrush with receding gums?

When using an electric toothbrush, it is particularly crucial to be gentle and use low speed especially when you have receding gums. Angle your toothbrush at 45 degrees toward your teeth and gum, and move in circular motion to brush each tooth and its line with the gum. Do not apply excessive pressure or move to and fro because this will increase the pain in the gum.

Which is the most effective manual toothbrush that can be used for sensitive teeth and gums?

For sensitive teeth and gums, it is advisable to use manual toothbrushes that come with soft bristles. Search for toothbrushes whose bristles are marked as “soft” or “extra soft. ”Other common choices include the Colgate 360 Sensitive Pro-Relief, Sensodyne Pronamel, and GUM Soft-Picks.

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Jeff brings to Buoy over 20 years of clinical experience as a physician assistant in urgent care and internal medicine. He also has extensive experience in healthcare administration, most recently as developer and director of an urgent care center. While completing his doctorate in Health Sciences at A.T. Still University, Jeff studied population health, healthcare systems, and evidence-based medi...
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