When dental needs become more complex or you want to improve the way your smile feels and functions, it helps to have a provider who looks at the full picture. Dr. Karina Acuña focuses on creating thoughtful, minimally invasive treatment plans that support long-term oral health while improving comfort, function, and appearance.
Her approach is centered on helping patients understand their options so decisions feel informed and confident at every step.
Care That Connects Precision, Function, and Everyday Life
Dr. Karina Acuña was born in Monterrey, Mexico, where she spent the first three decades of her life building a strong academic and clinical foundation in dentistry. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León (UANL), where she also completed a three-year residency and a Master’s degree in Restorative Dentistry.
Her early career included five years in private practice under the mentorship of an experienced clinician, where she developed confidence in both restorative and patient-centered care.
Her educational journey includes:
- Doctor of Dental Surgery — Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León
- Master’s in Restorative Dentistry — Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León
- Doctor of Dental Surgery — University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
- Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency — University of Texas Health San Antonio
Since relocating to San Antonio in 2014, she has practiced alongside her husband, Dr. Gilberto Tostado, as part of the 5 Star Dental Group team.
Focused on Advanced, Minimally Invasive Care
Dr. Acuña brings advanced training in oral surgery, implant dentistry, and restorative procedures, with a strong focus on protecting natural tooth structure whenever possible.
Her clinical expertise includes:
- Dental implant placement and restoration
- Surgical extractions, including wisdom teeth
- Aesthetic crown lengthening
- Digital dentistry and complex restorative care
She is known for combining precision with a conservative approach, ensuring treatment supports both immediate needs and long-term oral health. Each plan is carefully designed to reflect facial balance, function, and natural aesthetics.
Treatment Designed With Preservation in Mind
For Dr. Acuña, dentistry is both technical and deeply personal. She believes the best outcomes come from education, trust, and a clear understanding of what each patient wants to achieve.
Her approach focuses on preserving what is healthy while restoring what is needed in the least invasive way possible. She often works with patients who want to better understand their oral health, guiding them through options in a way that feels steady and supportive rather than overwhelming.
She values the variety of dentistry, from complex surgical cases to simple restorative work, and finds meaning in improving both confidence and quality of life through care that feels thoughtful and precise.
Training, Memberships, and Continued Learning
Dr. Acuña continues to build on her training through ongoing education and professional involvement.
She is a member of:
- Texas Dental Association
- American Dental Association
- Institution for Integrative Nutrition (Health Coach Certification)
Her commitment to continuing education supports her focus on modern, evidence-based care and comprehensive treatment planning.
Outside the Office
Outside of dentistry, Dr. Acuña enjoys an active and balanced lifestyle. She values movement and wellness through yoga and Pilates, and she enjoys traveling, reading, and spending time exploring new experiences with her family. She also follows Formula 1 racing and has a strong interest in nutrition and healthy living, shaped by her training as a health coach.
A Simple Place to Begin Your Treatment
If you’re looking for a dentist who takes a careful, minimally invasive approach and focuses on long-term function and aesthetics, the next step is a conversation. Schedule a visit with Dr. Acuña to explore your options and create a plan that fits your needs and goals.