Gilberto Tostado’s father and grandfather were both dentists. From his early childhood, he remembers going to their dental offices where they had carving wax in their laboratories. He would build cars and planes out of the wax. By the time he was 12, he was doing dental laboratory work—making teeth out of wax and making dental models. He loved this hands-on work and decided to make it his career, also.
Born and raised in Arizona, after high school he moved to Monterrey, Mexico where he obtained a Masters in Restorative Dentistry. Later he attended the University of Southern California where he completed a 3-year residency in prosthodontics, earning his specialty certificate. He has been in private practice in San Antonio since 2015.
Dr. Tostado’s Treatment Philosophy
In his treatment philosophy, he emphasizes prevention and conservative treatment. His hygienist is a key part of his treatment team and she takes a lead role in helping patients prevent dental disease. When treatment is needed, he wants it to be as minimally invasive as possible. Fortunately, dental implants and dental bonding now allow much more conservative treatments than used to be possible.
He loves the artistic aspect of his work. When asked what he finds particularly satisfying about his work, he responded, “Being able to design a smile and create function like an artist would design his masterpiece and an architect would pour his heart into his design.” He loves seeing his patients’ quality of life transformed by improved aesthetics and function.
“The field of prosthodontics gives me the opportunity to take on challenging cases and see the treatment through from beginning to end. I get to watch first-hand as the improved aesthetics and function transform my patients’ quality of life. I love being able to share in that experience with them.”
Professional Memberships & Accomplishments
- Aesthetic Dentistry Fellowship
- American College of Prosthodontists
- American Dental Association
- Texas Dental Association
- Spear Dental Study Club in San Antonio
Dr. Tostado never stops learning and sharing what he’s learned with others. He logs more than 100 hours each year in continuing education, over eight times the amount required by the state of Texas. He has also lectured for dental conferences across the United States and in Mexico, and has published dental articles including “CAD/CAM High-Strength Glass-Ceramics” in Quintessence of Dental Technology. He has also published a research thesis, Dental Erosion in Bulimic Patients.
Personal Life
Dr. Tostado leads an active and busy life outside of 5 Star Dental Group. He enjoys motorsports racing, traveling, and equestrian arts. He and his wife Karina, a health coach and fellow dentist, share a love for road trips, nature hikes, and English bulldogs.