The Periodontist Who Invented His Own Gum Graft Technique — and Has Spent Nearly Three Decades Teaching It to Other Dentists

LIVONIA, MI — In a field where few practitioners ever earn the distinction, Dr. Samir F. Zakaria, DDS, MSD, is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and a State Board Certified Periodontist — a combination held by only a limited number of specialists across the greater Detroit area and the State of Michigan. For 34 years, he has devoted his practice exclusively to periodontics and dental implants, building a body of clinical work that includes a surgical technique he personally developed and still performs today.

A Specialist's Path, Built on Two Degrees

Dr. Zakaria's training reads like a blueprint for the kind of dual expertise patients hope for but rarely find in one office. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Detroit-Mercy School of Dentistry before heading to Indiana University School of Dentistry, where he completed both a Certificate of Periodontics and a Master of Dental Science degree. That pairing of broad dental training with advanced periodontal specialization is precisely what allows him to plan and carry out complex periodontal treatment and dental implant surgery under a single roof, rather than shuttling patients between separate offices for diagnosis and implant placement.

The Technique He Invented

Among Dr. Zakaria's most distinctive contributions is the Flapless Connective Tissue Graft, a minimally invasive approach to treating gum recession that he invented, developed, and has now performed for close to two decades. Built on microsurgery principles, the technique departs from traditional grafting methods by avoiding large surgical flaps altogether, which translates into less pain, less swelling, and a notably smoother recovery for patients — without sacrificing the predictability of the results. It is the kind of innovation that typically takes root slowly in a conservative specialty, yet it has become a hallmark of his practice and a technique he has since taught to other clinicians.

A Teacher as Much as a Clinician

Dr. Zakaria's influence extends well beyond his own treatment chair. He began teaching at Indiana University School of Dentistry from 1992 to 1996, held a faculty position at the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry from 1997 to 2020, and currently teaches in the Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. For nearly 30 years, he has lectured and led continuing education courses in periodontics and dental implants for hygienists, general dentists, and fellow specialists — locally, nationally, and internationally. That sustained commitment to teaching has run in parallel with 16 consecutive years of recognition as a "Top Dentist" by Hour Magazine, Top Dentists Online, and Skyline Magazine, a streak that reflects steady, long-term trust from both patients and peers rather than a single moment of acclaim.

Comprehensive Care, From Implants to Anxiety Management

The practice's scope covers the full range of periodontal and implant needs: single-tooth and full-mouth dental implants, periodontal plastic surgery and cosmetic gum contouring, conservative non-surgical treatment of gum disease, and bone grafting and jaw reconstruction to support implant placement. Recognizing that a periodontal visit can be daunting for some patients, Dr. Zakaria is also certified in conscious sedation, offering a path to treatment for those who might otherwise delay care out of fear. As he puts it, "At our periodontal office, we pride ourselves on great communication with our patients and referring dentists. Our welcoming, comforting environment with outstanding staff helps keep our patients relaxed and at ease."

The Patient Experience

That philosophy shows up consistently in how patients describe their visits — not just the clinical outcomes, but the tone of the office itself. Patients have described arriving in significant pain or with long-standing gum recession and leaving with both relief and a clear understanding of what was done and why, a reflection of Dr. Zakaria's habit of walking patients through each step of a procedure before it begins. The practice carries a 4.5-star average across 122 reviews and holds a 93 Dental.me Score, numbers that track closely with the recurring patient refrain that the team, including Dr. Zakaria's wife, is as warm and attentive as the clinical care is precise.

Access and Scheduling

The practice keeps a steady weekday schedule — Monday through Thursday from 9 AM to 5 PM and Friday from 9 AM to 1 PM — giving patients a consistent window to work dental visits into their week. Prospective and current patients are encouraged to contact the office directly for details on new patient availability, insurance, and emergency scheduling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Dr. Zakaria specialize in?
Dr. Zakaria has focused exclusively on periodontics and dental implants since 1992, treating periodontal disease and performing a full range of dental implant procedures, from single-tooth implants to full-mouth solutions.

What is the Flapless Connective Tissue Graft?
It is a minimally invasive gum grafting technique that Dr. Zakaria invented and has performed for close to two decades, using microsurgery principles to treat gum recession with less pain, less swelling, and a smoother recovery than traditional grafting approaches.

Is sedation available for patients with dental anxiety?
Yes. Dr. Zakaria is certified in conscious sedation, offering an option for patients who feel anxious about periodontal or implant procedures.

What are the office hours?
The practice is open Monday through Thursday from 9 AM to 5 PM and Friday from 9 AM to 1 PM, and is closed Saturday and Sunday.

What credentials set Dr. Zakaria apart from other periodontists?
He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology in addition to his State Board Certification, a distinction held by only a limited number of periodontists in the greater Detroit area and across Michigan.

How can I schedule a consultation?
Prospective patients are encouraged to contact the office directly to discuss new patient availability, insurance questions, and emergency care options.

About the Practice of Samir Zakaria, DDS, MSD

The practice of Samir F. Zakaria, DDS, MSD, is a periodontal and dental implant specialty office led by a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology who has focused exclusively on periodontics and implants since 1992. Known for the Flapless Connective Tissue Graft technique Dr. Zakaria developed himself and for his nearly three-decade teaching career at Indiana University, the University of Detroit Mercy, and the University of Michigan, the practice holds a 93 Dental.me Score and a 4.5-star patient rating across 122 reviews.

For more information about Samir Zakaria, visit zakariaperio.com.

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Livonia dentists on Dental.me: https://dental.me/mi/livonia/
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