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 the nation's licensed dentists each year. The recognition, which is based on peer nominations and selection by the Castle Connolly research team, underscores Dr. Zelby's standing in the dental community for his specialized work in complex restorative and aesthetic procedures.
With more than four decades of clinical experience, Dr. Zelby practices at 2860 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 100, in Marietta. His practice focuses on evaluating and treating complex dental conditions, including failing dental work, implant complications, severe tooth wear, traumatic injuries, congenital oral conditions, and oral rehabilitation following cancer treatment. Key procedures offered include advanced dental implant reconstruction, full-mouth rehabilitation, cosmetic dentistry, and interdisciplinary specialty care coordination.
In response to the honor, Dr. Zelby emphasized the importance of patient-centered care. "Being recognized as a Castle Connolly Top Dentist is a tremendous honor because it reflects the respect of my professional peers. Throughout my career, I have believed that exceptional dentistry begins with listening, careful diagnosis, and developing a thoughtful treatment plan tailored to each individual," he said. "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."
Dr. Zelby's approach includes collaborative care workflows, coordinating with oral surgeons, periodontists, and other specialists to ensure optimal outcomes for complex cases. This interdisciplinary model is a hallmark of his practice, aiming to provide comprehensive solutions that address both functional and aesthetic needs.
Dr. Zelby's credentials include a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from New York University College of Dentistry and additional post-graduate specialty training in prosthodontics. He has also 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 in an Emeritus role. His civic leadership has earned him the Atlanta Community Service Award, recognition as an Honorary Georgia Senator, and ongoing accolades, including Atlanta Magazine Top Dentist honors.
The Castle Connolly Top Dentist list is published at castleconnolly.com and in various print and online partner publications. Nominations are open to all licensed DDS, DMD, or BDS, and the selection process evaluates nominees based on criteria including medical education, training, and disciplinary history. Importantly, dentists cannot pay to be selected, ensuring the list's integrity.
This recognition not only highlights Dr. Zelby's individual expertise but also underscores the importance of specialized dental care for patients with complex needs. As the field of prosthodontics continues to evolve, the acknowledgment from peers and professional organizations like Castle Connolly serves as a benchmark for quality and trust in dental care.
