Dr. Cortes graduated from Castle Park high school in Chula Vista. After graduating high school he enlisted in the United States Air Force, went on to work for large telecommunication companies, and then decided to return to school to pursue his passion to serve and help others. He returned to school, receiving his first degree in Biology from the University of San Diego. He then decided to focus his study on dentistry and received his doctorate from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He eventually completed externships in Oral Surgery at Banner Good Samaritan Hospital (located in Phoenix, Arizona) and Highland Hospital (Oakland, California). To maintain his credentials, Dr. Cortes attends continuing education classes each year to ensure his patients have access to the latest technological advancements.