Dr. David Zelby, DDS, a prosthodontist based in Marietta, Georgia, has been named a 2026 Castle Connolly Top Dentist, an honor awarded to only 10% of licensed dentists nationwide. The recognition, announced on August 25, 2026, is based on peer nominations and a rigorous selection process by Castle Connolly's research team.
Dr. Zelby practices at 2860 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 100, Marietta, GA 30068, where he specializes in complex restorative and aesthetic dental care. With more than four decades of clinical experience, he focuses on interdisciplinary treatment for patients requiring comprehensive oral health solutions, including those with failing dental work, implant complications, severe tooth wear, traumatic injuries, congenital conditions, and oral rehabilitation after cancer treatment.
"Being recognized as a Castle Connolly Top Dentist is a tremendous honor because it reflects the respect of my professional peers," said Dr. Zelby. "Every patient deserves honest guidance based on experience and evidence to achieve the healthiest, most predictable outcome. To be recognized by Castle Connolly reinforces the values that have guided my career: integrity, compassion, and a commitment to treating every patient like family."
His practice offers advanced procedures such as dental implant reconstruction, full-mouth rehabilitation, cosmetic dentistry, and complex restorative treatments. To ensure optimal outcomes, Dr. Zelby collaborates closely with oral surgeons, periodontists, and other specialists, coordinating care across disciplines.
Dr. Zelby's educational background includes a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the New York University College of Dentistry and post-graduate specialty training in prosthodontics. He has contributed significantly to dental education, having served on the faculty at Emory University and currently serving as a Clinical Professor at Augusta University. His public service includes years as Chief of Staff at the Ben Massell Dental Clinic, where he continues to serve in an emeritus role. His civic leadership has earned him the Atlanta Community Service Award and recognition as an Honorary Georgia Senator, among other accolades.
Castle Connolly Top Dentists are selected by a research team based on criteria including medical education, training, and disciplinary history. Nominations are open to all licensed DDS, DMD, or BDS practitioners, and dentists cannot pay to be selected. The full list of 2026 Top Dentists is published at castleconnolly.com and in partner publications.
This recognition underscores Dr. Zelby's standing in the dental community and his commitment to patient-centered care. For patients seeking complex dental solutions, this honor provides assurance of his expertise and dedication to quality outcomes.
