The Philadelphia Department of Public Health is alerting patients about possible exposures to HIV, hepatitis C, and B at a dental clinic in Rittenhouse.
Last week, the Pennsylvania Department of State temporarily suspended the dentist’s license at Smiles at Rittenhouse Square, often referred to as Smiles on the Square, due to unsanitary conditions. As a result, the clinic will remain closed until further notice.
So, what should patients expect? Here’s some information on testing options.
Will Smiles at Rittenhouse reopen? What happens when a dentist gets their license suspended?
The Philadelphia Department of Public Health stated that the clinic cannot reopen until the dentist’s license is reinstated and the health department verifies that the unsafe practices have been fixed.
In the meantime, the dentist is prohibited from practicing under a suspended license.
The Pennsylvania Department of State is also conducting its investigation. Meanwhile, the city’s Public Health Department plans to update infection control protocols and provide additional training for the clinic’s staff.
What is the risk for HIV, hepatitis at Philly dentist clinic?
As of May 20, the health department believes the infection risk is low and has not been informed of any cases linked to the clinic’s practices.
Notices will be sent to patients who visited the clinic between April 2025 and May 2026. These notices will detail potential exposure, testing suggestions, and locations, as well as information for primary care providers.
For anyone with questions, the city recommends contacting the hotline at 215.685.5488.
