Dr. David Zelby, DDS, a prosthodontist practicing in Marietta, Georgia, has been named a 2026 Castle Connolly Top Dentist, an honor awarded to only 10% of licensed dentists nationwide each year. The recognition is based on peer nominations and a rigorous selection process conducted by the Castle Connolly research team, which evaluates nominees' medical education, training, and disciplinary histories.
Dr. Zelby, who has more than 40 years of clinical experience, specializes in complex restorative and aesthetic dental care. His practice, located at 2860 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 100, focuses on advanced dental implant reconstruction, full-mouth rehabilitation, cosmetic dentistry, and treatment for failing dental work, implant complications, severe tooth wear, traumatic injuries, congenital conditions, and oral rehabilitation following cancer treatment. He coordinates care with oral surgeons, periodontists, and other specialists to ensure optimal outcomes for complex cases.
"Being recognized as a Castle Connolly Top Dentist is a tremendous honor because it reflects the respect of my professional peers," said Dr. Zelby. "Throughout my career, I have believed that exceptional dentistry begins with listening, careful diagnosis, and developing a thoughtful treatment plan tailored to each individual. Every patient deserves honest guidance based on experience and evidence to achieve the healthiest, most predictable outcome."
Dr. Zelby earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from New York University College of Dentistry and completed additional post-graduate training in prosthodontics. He has served on the faculty at Emory University and is currently 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. He has received the Atlanta Community Service Award and has been named an Honorary Georgia Senator, along with multiple Atlanta Magazine Top Dentist honors.
Castle Connolly, which publishes its Top Dentists list at castleconnolly.com and in partner publications, emphasizes that dentists cannot pay to be selected. The recognition highlights Dr. Zelby's standing among his peers and his commitment to patient-centered care, reinforcing the importance of peer-reviewed excellence in dental medicine.
