Philly dental patients urged to get tested for hepatitis, HIV
Audacy • • health
Key Points:
- The Philadelphia Department of Public Health announced that patients of Smiles at Rittenhouse Square dental practice may have been exposed to blood-borne illnesses due to unsanitary conditions found during inspections.
- The state suspended the dentist's license after discovering improper sterilization of instruments and reuse of supplies between patients, leading to the clinic's closure.
- Patients treated between April 2025 and May 2026 are advised to get tested for hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV, although officials believe the risk of infection is low and no cases have been reported.
- The city is compiling a list of affected patients to notify them directly, with the total estimated in the hundreds, and the dental office will remain closed until deemed safe by health authorities.
- Patients with questions can contact the city’s hotline at 215-685-5488 during business hours; the clinic’s practitioner has not responded to requests for comment.