MARIETTA, Ga., Aug. 25, 2026 — Dr. David Zelby, DDS, has been named a 2026 Castle Connolly Top Dentist, an honor bestowed on only 10 percent of the nation's licensed dentists each year. The selection is based on peer nominations and rigorous research by the Castle Connolly team, and dentists cannot pay to be included.
Dr. Zelby, a prosthodontist with more than 40 years of clinical experience, practices at 2860 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 100, in Marietta. His practice focuses on complex restorative and aesthetic dental conditions, including failing dental work, implant complications, severe tooth wear, traumatic injuries, congenital conditions, and oral rehabilitation after cancer treatment. He offers advanced implant reconstruction, full-mouth rehabilitation, cosmetic procedures, and interdisciplinary care coordination.
“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 post-graduate specialty training in prosthodontics. He has served on the faculty at Emory University and currently is 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, been named an Honorary Georgia Senator, and earned Atlanta Magazine Top Dentist honors.
Castle Connolly publishes its Top Dentists list at castleconnolly.com and in partner publications. Nominations are open to all licensed DDS, DMD, or BDS, and honorees are chosen based on criteria including education, training, and disciplinary history.
