Health warning issued for former dental patients in Strathfield

Health warning issued for former dental patients in Strathfield

13 May 2026

The alert applies to people who were treated by Dr William Tam, who worked for more than 25 years at a dental clinic in Strathfield, Sydney.

Health authorities say that while the risk is considered low, patients may have been exposed to hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or HIV.

A review by the Dental Council of NSW found issues with infection control and patient record keeping at the practice. Dr Tam has since retired and is no longer registered as a dentist.

Officials say it is believed thousands of patients may have been treated over the years, but there are no complete records to contact them directly.

As a precaution, NSW Health is asking all former patients to speak with their GP or healthcare provider and consider testing for bloodborne viruses.

Health experts note that these infections can have no symptoms for many years, but early testing allows access to effective treatment.

People seeking more information are advised to check NSW Health resources or contact their GP or Healthdirect.

https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/

Source: NSW Health