Dr. Michael Balke of Arizona Veterinary Dental Specialists becomes the only practicing OMFS Fellow in the state
GILBERT, Ariz. – Aug. 11, 2025 – Dogs like Boone and Art, who once would’ve faced euthanasia, are now thriving thanks to the advanced skills of one Arizona veterinarian.
Thrive Pet Healthcare and its partner, Arizona Veterinary Dental Specialists (AVDS), proudly announce that Michael Balke, DVM, DAVDC, F-OMFS, has earned a prestigious Fellowship in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (OMFS). He is currently the only practicing veterinarian in Arizona, and one of fewer than 30 in the world, to hold this rare and highly specialized distinction.
Dr. Balke, a board-certified veterinary dentist, spent two years completing intensive training to earn the OMFS Fellowship. The certification, established in 2019 through a collaboration between the American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC) and the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS), represents the highest level of specialization in veterinary oral surgery.
“This fellowship allows me to provide the most advanced care to patients who are facing incredibly complex oral and maxillofacial challenges,” said Dr. Balke. “There’s now hope where there used to be none.”
As an OMFS Fellow, Dr. Balke can now perform some of the most complex and life-changing procedures in veterinary medicine, including:
- Removing major oral and facial tumors and reconstructing the face
- Repairing severe palate defects with advanced surgical techniques
- Stabilizing facial fractures and rebuilding damaged tissue
- Treating advanced oral and facial conditions once thought untreatable
Dr. Balke’s own dog, Boone, became one of his most meaningful patients. A massive tumor in Boone’s upper jaw once threatened his life. Using his new skills, Dr. Balke removed the tumor and reconstructed Boone’s jaw. Two years later, Boone is enjoying a full, active life, without the threat of cancer.
In another extraordinary case, Dr. Balke saved a puppy named Art who had a large cleft palate. He used cartilage from Art’s ear to reconstruct the defect, a highly advanced technique performed by only a few veterinarians worldwide.
“These are the kinds of cases that used to result in euthanasia,” said Dr. Balke. “Now, we’re able to give these pets more time—and often, an excellent quality of life.”
Dr. Balke’s OMFS expertise fills a critical need across the Southwest. With no other OMFS Fellows currently practicing in Utah, Southern California, Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico or Texas, his presence in AVDS’ Gilbert location at 86 W. Juniper Ave., Suite 6, gives general practice and specialty veterinarians in the region a rare and valuable surgical resource. Multiple AVDS locations across Arizona further expand access to veterinary dentistry and oral surgery.
“The goal is always to get the pet to the right person,” said Dr. Balke. “Whether that’s me or another specialist, we’re here to help.”
Dr. Balke earned his bachelor’s degree in biology and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) from the University of Missouri.
Veterinarians or pet owners seeking more information, referrals, or appointment details can visit azvetdentists.com to find locations, referral forms, and contact information.