Dr. David Zelby, DDS, a prosthodontist based in Marietta, Georgia, has been named a 2026 Castle Connolly Top Dentist. The recognition, announced August 25, 2026, places Dr. Zelby among the top 10% of licensed dentists in the nation selected annually for their specialty and regional expertise. Castle Connolly, a trusted healthcare research and publishing company, selects honorees through a rigorous process that includes peer nominations and evaluation of nominee criteria such as medical education, training, and disciplinary history.
Dr. Zelby, who practices at 2860 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 100, Marietta, GA 30068, brings more than four decades of clinical experience to his role. He specializes in prosthodontics, focusing on complex restorative and aesthetic dental procedures. His practice addresses a wide range of conditions, including failing dental work, implant complications, severe tooth wear, traumatic dental 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 values that have guided his career. "Being recognized as a Castle Connolly Top Dentist is a tremendous honor because it reflects the respect of my professional peers," he said. "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. 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 to patient care is notable for its collaborative nature. His practice coordinates directly with oral surgeons, periodontists, and other medical and dental specialists to ensure optimal outcomes for complex cases. This interdisciplinary model is particularly valuable for patients requiring comprehensive solutions that span multiple areas of dental and medical expertise.
Beyond his clinical work, Dr. Zelby has made significant contributions to dental education and community leadership. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the New York University College of Dentistry and completed post-graduate specialty training in prosthodontics. He has served on the faculty at Emory University and currently holds the position of 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, recognition as an Honorary Georgia Senator, and ongoing accolades, including Atlanta Magazine Top Dentist honors.
The Castle Connolly Top Dentist designation is a peer-driven honor. Nominations are open to all licensed DDS, DMD, or BDS dentists, and selection is based on a variety of factors, including professional standing and disciplinary history. Importantly, dentists cannot pay to be selected, ensuring the integrity of the award. The full list of 2026 Top Dentists is published at castleconnolly.com and in partner print and online publications.
For business and technology leaders, this recognition is significant because it highlights the importance of peer-reviewed excellence in healthcare. In an era where AI and technology are transforming dentistry, Dr. Zelby's recognition underscores the enduring value of experience, human judgment, and collaborative care. His practice exemplifies how technology and interdisciplinary coordination can enhance patient outcomes, setting a standard for others in the industry to follow.
