Santos Cortez, DDS

My practice philosophy is to provide the best possible dental care for children in a friendly environment and to advocate for children's welfare in any way that I can. I enjoy seeing children who have perhaps been afraid of what we do for them develop trust and a positive attitude towards us. After 32 years of continuous private practice, I still enjoy working with families every day and keeping children in good oral health.

I have been on the teaching staff through the University of Southern California School of Dentistry since 1980 and work with the Advanced Pediatric Dentistry Residency Program. I am also on the medical staff at Miller Children's Hospital and Long Beach Memorial Medical Center where I admit patients. I have been on several committees there and am currently on the Governing Board of Directors.

I enjoy working within communities, both locally and internationally. I work with the RAM Clinics in Los Angeles and have gone on dental missions with the International Health Emissaries.

I like to inspire and motivate my team members to enjoy what we do and to train them to help me deliver excellent care. I like the positive attitude and great energy that they bring to our team. They bring new ideas for discussion and are excited when we adopt and implement those ideas.