Meet Dr. David Zelig
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon
When complex dental surgery demands more than conventional expertise, the difference between a good outcome and a life-changing one lies in the hands of the surgeon. The most advanced full-mouth restorations, facial trauma repairs, and implant surgeries require a level of precision, training, and clinical experience that only a true specialist can provide.
Manhattan Aesthetic Dentistry is proud to introduce Dr. David Zelig, a board-certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon who brings exceptional surgical depth to our Midtown Manhattan practice. Trained at prestigious institutions and seasoned through decades of complex surgical care, Dr. Zelig expands our team’s capacity to treat even the most challenging cases — from advanced dental implant surgery to facial trauma reconstruction — under one roof.
A Career Built on Complexity
Dr. Zelig built a distinguished career that spans craniofacial surgery, facial trauma care, and oral surgery education. Before returning to New York, he maintained a private practice in Memphis, Tennessee, where he was actively involved in craniofacial and trauma surgery while also contributing to the education of oral surgery residents — a role that reflects both his mastery of the craft and his commitment to advancing the field.
Since his return to New York, Dr. Zelig has remained at the forefront of facial trauma surgery and major implant surgery. His extensive clinical experience in treating complex, high-stakes cases makes him an invaluable addition to a practice that specializes in precisely these kinds of challenges.
Expanding What's Possible at Manhattan Aesthetic Dentistry
The collaboration between Dr. Zelig’s surgical expertise and Dr. Schmidt’s prosthodontic mastery creates a uniquely integrated care model for patients with complex needs. Procedures that once required coordination across multiple offices and providers can now be planned, executed, and completed within a single, cohesive team — with every stage guided by specialists who communicate directly with one another.
This matters most for patients pursuing treatments such as All-on-4 full-arch restoration, zygomatic and pterygoid implants, and full-mouth reconstruction — cases where the surgical and restorative phases are deeply interdependent. Our advanced dental technology supports this collaborative workflow, enabling digital planning and precise execution that consistently delivers exceptional outcomes.
Professional Credentials at a Glance
Dr. Zelig’s qualifications represent the highest standards in his specialty. The following credentials reflect the rigor of his training and his ongoing commitment to surgical excellence:
1. Board-certified: as an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, verified through the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
2. DDS: University of Tennessee College of Dentistry
3. BS: University of Memphis
4. Residency: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, The Long Island Jewish Medical Center
5. Fellow: American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
6. Member: American Dental Association and New York State Dental Association
Beyond the clinic, Dr. Zelig values time with his family and finds balance through weightlifting, cycling, and playing guitar.
Experience Complex Surgery with Confidence
At Manhattan Aesthetic Dentistry, we have always believed that truly exceptional care begins with the right team. With Dr. Zelig now part of that team, we are positioned to offer an even higher level of integrated, specialist-driven surgical and restorative care.
Whether you require advanced implant surgery, have been told your case is too complex elsewhere, or are ready to begin your journey toward a fully restored smile, we invite you to reach out to our Midtown East practice near Grand Central Terminal. Visit our blog to explore our approach to care, or contact us today to schedule your consultation with our team.
