Dr. Mark Breiner, President IAOMT, writes the following:
Usually when a person dies, outside of their circle of family and friends, there is little notice or effect. Not so with the passing of Dr. Michael Ziff. The ripples of his leaving are far and wide. As Executive Director of the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology, as an author, dentist, and scientist, Michael had profound influence and impact on many people.
When Michael learned the truth about amalgam fillings, he embraced change. He accepted that he may have harmed his patients in the past, but he would not do so in the future. Being a man of immense integrity, he did not see changing his practice as a choice; it was the way it had to be. Not only did he change his practice, but he helped form the IAOMT so that others could learn the truth and also change. The truth was very important to Michael, and he helped set the standard for the Academy. Any position the Academy took had to be based on scientific truths.
Dr. Ziff also helped spread the truth by writing books and publishing the BioProbe newsletters. He did most of this with his beloved father, Sam Ziff, as co-author. What wonderful publications they are, always extremely well referenced and written in a no-nonsense, direct manner.
Michael had a tremendous mind, and it seemed he could recall most of what he had read or written. Anyone who got into a debate with him on matters of dentistry was truly at a disadvantage.
Dr. Ziff became the first Executive Director of the IAOMT. He helped bring us to where we are today - a premier scientific dental/medical organization. He worked tirelessly because of the love he had for dentistry, dentists and the goals of the Academy. He did this with humility, professionalism and respect for all.
We were blessed to have him here, and we will miss him - he was truly a righteous person.
Mark A. Breiner, DDS President, IAOMT
