Dental Clinic in Philadelphia Shut Down Due to Health Concerns
Health officials have closed a dental clinic in Center City, Philadelphia, and are advising former patients to get tested for possible exposure to Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV.
The Pennsylvania Department of State suspended Dr. Kirti Chopra’s dental license at Smiles at Rittenhouse Square, which is also recognized as Smiles on the Square, following inspections that revealed unsanitary conditions.
Now that the practice is closed due to her suspension, the Philadelphia Department of Public Health stated there are currently no known infections linked to the clinic, although they believe the risk is relatively low.
The health department is collaborating with the clinic to compile a list of patients who visited from April 2025 to May 2026. Affected individuals will receive information by mail recommending them to get tested, along with a letter to present to their healthcare providers explaining the circumstances.
James Garrow, the communications director for the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, noted the clinic’s closure on May 15 due to improper sanitization and safety practices.
“Anytime people have sharp instruments in their mouths, there’s a risk for transmitting bloodborne pathogens,” Garrow remarked.
A statement from the Pennsylvania Department of State indicated that Chopra’s license was suspended because her ongoing practice posed a “clear and immediate danger to public health and safety.”
The health department plans to work with clinic staff to improve infection-control measures and ensure proper training. The clinic can only reopen once it meets safety standards and Chopra’s license is reinstated.
Chopra, whose name is displayed outside the clinic, has communicated through her attorney that she is cooperating with the investigation.
“Dr. Chopra will continue to work collaboratively with public-health officials concerning patient notifications, testing recommendations, and any necessary infection-control corrections,” her statement read. “Due to the ongoing regulatory proceedings, Dr. Chopra will refrain from discussing these matters publicly.”
Documents from the state investigation revealed Chopra acknowledged reusing single-use items, such as anesthesia vials, which endangered patients by increasing the risk of transmitting hepatitis and HIV, along with other infections. It was also noted that dental handpieces were reused without proper sanitization.
Patient Reaction
Kathleen Poliski, a patient who visited the clinic just two weeks prior for a cleaning, expressed her astonishment and concern. “I can’t believe this could happen, knowing what’s at stake,” she said, adding that she learned about the potential exposure through a Facebook post, feeling frustrated that the clinic did not directly inform her.
Information for Patients
A hotline has been established for former patients with inquiries about possible exposure; they can call 215-685-5488 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Patients may also file complaints about medical providers in Philadelphia via the city’s website.
