Following an investigation revealing sterilization issues at Dr. George Chan Dentistry in Brantford, Ont., the clinic was closed on Nov. 3. Grand Erie Public Health (GEPH) shared photos of the findings from the investigation. Over 800 former patients who received treatment between Nov. 3, 2021, and Nov. 3, 2025, have been advised by GEPH to undergo testing for hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV.
Lyn Portelli, a former receptionist at the clinic, disclosed that she reported concerns to GEPH on Oct. 29, 2025, after inspecting a patient room on Oct. 28. This prompted GEPH’s investigation, conducted by Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC), which identified 15 lapses in instrument disinfection and sterilization.
Dr. George Chan is no longer authorized to practice, as indicated on the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO) website following his resignation. The college’s inquiry into the clinic’s operations is ongoing. If Chan applies to practice dentistry again in Ontario, he must comply with 24 months of infection prevention and control monitoring, in addition to other requirements set by the College since July 2.
Dr. Aviv Ouanounou from the University of Toronto’s faculty of dentistry highlighted that the monitoring requirement for dentists reapplying for registration is not standard. The RCDSO may take disciplinary action against Chan despite his resignation, if deemed necessary for public protection.
Former patients treated at the clinic between specific dates are advised to contact their healthcare provider for screening for blood-borne infections with a GEPH requisition form. Those without a primary-care provider can seek care at specified clinics or schedule appointments with the Virtual Urgent Care Clinic.
Dental authorities nationwide typically request Certificates of Standing from previous registration locations, meaning Chan would likely need to provide this if he aims to resume dental practice in the future.