Dr. Michael Gatz, a native of Delaware, Ohio, recognized his calling to dentistry during his undergraduate studies at Ohio Wesleyan University. After earning his degree with concentrations in Fine Arts and Zoology, he pursued dental education at The Ohio State College of Dentistry with support from the Health Professions Scholarship Program provided by the United States Navy.
Dr. Gatz began his professional career at the nation’s first Navy hospital, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, where he undertook a General Practice Residency focused on complex comprehensive care and emergency management across all age groups. This additional training qualified him to serve as Dental Department Head aboard the USS Wasp LDH-1, spending fourteen months deployed upon one of the most medically capable ships in the fleet. During the last phase of his six-year Navy career, Dr. Gatz focused his expertise and dedication to deliver comprehensive dental care to the Midshipmen, faculty, and staff at the United States Naval Academy.
Now at Baltimore Dental Co., Dr. Gatz brings a practice philosophy centered on minimally invasive, evidence-based dentistry. He prioritizes staying current with the latest materials and treatment options to remain at the forefront of dental advancements. Dr. Gatz is deeply committed to patient education, ensuring that his patients understand the root causes of their dental issues for optimized treatment and minimized recurrence. In alignment with his philosophy, Dr. Gatz incorporates compassion and anxiety reduction into his practice, adopting a patient-centered approach, tailoring treatments to individual needs and creating a relaxed clinical environment. His empathetic and caring nature ensures that patient comfort is prioritized during all clinical procedures. He wants each patient to know that they, their comfort, and care are his top priority.
Beyond his professional life, Dr. Gatz engages in hiking with his rescue dog, loves exploring national parks, and delving into various forms of art. His recent venture into glass blowing resulted in a unique neon sign shaped like a tooth – a testament to his creative spirit.