Closing Gaps in Teeth With Braces – Here’s How!

Gaps between teeth can be a concern in terms of form and function. Often the best way to close spaces between teeth is with braces. Other methods exist, but it depends on your desired outcome. Read on to find out how we can help you achieve your ideal smile. What is...

How to Get My Braces off Faster

For braces to work properly they need time to straighten and align your teeth. There is no magic fix; braces usually need around 18 months to do their job. This length of time can feel like an eternity but, after treatment, you will enjoy a straight smile for the rest...

Do Wisdom Teeth Affect Braces – Debunking the Myths

It’s true, wisdom teeth can cause a range of problems for much of the population. However, not everyone has to go to the trouble and expense of having wisdom teeth removed, regardless of whether you have orthodontic treatment. There are many half-truths and myths...

When Can I Stop Wearing a Retainer after Braces?

The question about throwing away your retainers is a common one. It’s understandable. Patients feel like they’ve been taking extra care of their teeth for years while they had braces and then with a retainer. They want to do away with it all and do nothing more than...

6 Ways You Can Make Your Braces Less Noticeable

Nowadays, braces are so common that most people hardly notice them. However, some people with braces may still feel self-conscious about their appearance, especially if they have just been applied. Here are a few things you can do so your braces aren’t as obvious....

What Are Elastics for Braces?

Elastics are an important part of treatment for many people with braces. They are used to treat misaligned teeth including an overbite, underbite, open bite, and crossbite. The elastic bands work by applying additional force to certain areas of the mouth to move the...

What is the CAO?

The California Association of Orthodontists (CAO) is the California component of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO)—the largest and oldest dental specialty organization. The CAO represents nearly 1,500 orthodontic members who practice in California. CAO members are specialists who have completed dental school and then successfully completed 2–3 years of additional training at an accredited orthodontic residency program. Our members are experts in diagnosing and treating all orthodontic problems in patients of all ages—from child to adult. Whether a patient is considering clear aligners or traditional braces, orthodontists have the expertise and the treatment options to make sure they get their best smile.

Become A Member

CAO is a component of the American Association of Orthodontists and Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists. Members receive an abundance of resources to assist in building and maintaining their orthodontic practices. Orthodontists practicing in California join at the national (AAO) level and are automatically admitted to the constituent (PCSO) and component (CAO) organizations, gaining access to member benefits for each organization.

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CAO on Social Media

Happy World Teachers` Day! Let`s take a moment to celebrate the amazing educators who inspire, guide, and shape our lives. Tag the world’s best teacher in the comments below to recognize them today! #WorldTeachersDay #ThankATeacher #BestTeacher #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals ...

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Don`t forget to share your smile today! A smile is one of the simplest yet most powerful gestures we can offer—it can brighten someone`s day, boost your own mood, and create a ripple of positivity wherever you go. #WorldSmileDay #ShareYourSmile #smile #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals ...

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Go Pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month! Together, we can make a difference in the fight against breast cancer. Let`s spread hope, support research, and honor the strength of survivors and fighters everywhere. #BreastCancerAwareness #GoPink #BreastCancer #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals ...

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This fall, let’s celebrate the season of harvest by reaping the benefits of a bright, healthy smile. As you enjoy the beauty of the season, remember to invest in your smile and harvest the rewards of good oral hygiene. Here`s to a season of bright smiles and well-being! #HarvestYourSmile #BrightSmileBenefits #DentalCare #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals ...

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The earliest efforts to change the position of teeth go back as far as 400 BC. Aulus Cornelius Celsus of Rome theorized that teeth could be straightened with manual pressure. Not exactly right, but he got the ball rolling!

The most significant leap in orthodontics for nearly 2000 years was with Pierre Fauchard. In the 1700s, Fauchard invented the bandeau, a horseshoe-shaped metal appliance with holes in it to go over the teeth. It was held in place with silk threads. (Other ideas from that era included using wooden wedges between the teeth to move them. We`re not huge fans of that one.)

The first headgear was developed in 1822, and just 58 years later, Edward Hartley Angle identified the different types of bad bites (overbite, underbite, crossbite, etc.) and developed ways to address them.

All of those early orthodontists were limited by the technology of their time periods. They didn`t have bonding agents that could attach brackets to teeth (that came in 1949) or affordable stainless steel (not available until the 1970s). And they certainly couldn`t make invisible aligners (an innovation of the 1990s)!

As modern orthodontists, we`re proud to stand on the shoulders of so many giants in our field, and we`re delighted to be able to offer our patients such comfortable and effective treatments.
#braces #history #OrthodonticHistory #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
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Our team of orthodontic specialists is dedicated to helping you achieve the perfect smile with personalized and expert care. #SmileTransformation #PersonalizedCare #ExpertCare #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals ...

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Boost your dental health by incorporating cheese, yogurt, and milk into your diet! These delicious dairy products are packed with calcium and phosphorus, two essential minerals that play a crucial role in maintaining strong teeth and enamel. #StrongTeeth #cheese #yogurt #milk #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals ...

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Which one will you choose to cut back on to achieve better oral health this month? #BetterOralHealth #CutBack #ChooseOne #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals ...

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We honor the bravery of our heroes, remember those we lost, and reflect on the unwavering spirit that binds us together on Patriot Day. #PatriotDay #NeverForget #WeRemember #strength #resilience #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals ...

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In the pharmacy section of every grocery store, one side of an entire aisle is often dedicated to dozens of toothpaste options. We want to help our patients find the right things to look for to help narrow that selection down.

Whitening toothpastes are great, but remember that they can`t eliminate deeper stains or change a tooth`s natural color. The abrasive ingredients in whitening toothpaste can polish the teeth and the peroxide in them can break down some surface-level stains. Using it twice daily can lead to visible results after several weeks, but always look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance when choosing one!

Any braces-wearers should make sure to avoid whitening products, toothpaste included, to keep from ending up with discolored patches in the spots where the brackets were.

For tooth sensitivity, over-the-counter sensitivity toothpaste can help. It helps to rebuild and strengthen the enamel and reduce discomfort. The dentist can prescribe a stronger toothpaste if the over-the-counter options aren`t strong enough.

There`s been a lot of buzz around ingredients like activated charcoal and aloe vera despite there being little evidence to support the benefits they supposedly provide. Charcoal is very abrasive and might actually do more harm than good to the enamel. Toothpaste with these ingredients also tends to skip fluoride, which is essential for rebuilding tooth enamel. #toothpaste #ToothpasteIngredients #ADASealOfAcceptance #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
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Stay ahead of gum disease with these key signs to watch for. If you notice any of these symptoms, let us know. Healthy gums are crucial for a healthy smile! #OralHealth #GumDiseaseAwareness #GumCareMonth #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals ...

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We honor the hard work, dedication, and resilience of workers around the world. Your contributions make a difference every day. Happy Labor Day! #HardWork #dedication #resilience #LaborDay #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals ...

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Keep your smile bright and your teeth healthy by repeating these simple steps daily for a winning grin. #OralHealth #BrightSmile #HealthyTeeth #WinningGrin #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals ...

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There are many benefits of having straight teeth beyond just looks. Studies show that when someone has a straight smile, others see them as more intelligent, successful, and likely to get dates compared to someone with crooked teeth. But why do so many people`s teeth grow in crooked in the first place?

Modern eating habits are one possible contributing factor. When we grow up eating processed foods rather than a tough, fibrous diet like our hunter-gatherer ancestors did, it doesn`t stimulate as much jaw growth, so our teeth have less room and end up crooked and crowded. (The trade-off is that a hunter-gatherer diet would erode the chewing surfaces of teeth much faster.)

Genes can also contribute to orthodontic problems. If a child inherits Mom`s small jaws and Dad`s large teeth, they`re likely to have crowding issues, and children whose parents needed braces will probably also need them.

Daily habits can also impact tooth alignment. These include vigorous thumbsucking or pacifier use past age 4, a tongue-thrust reflex, habitual mouth breathing, or even simply resting the jaw on the hand frequently. Daily habits have a cumulative effect on our teeth and the shape of our dental arches. #CrookedTeeth #CrowdedTeeth #ToothAlignment #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
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Happy Tooth Fairy Day! Celebrate with us by commenting a 🦷 for an extra sprinkle of good luck today! #ToothFairyDay #ToothFairy #GoodLuck #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals ...

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We`re dedicated to crafting smiles that radiate joy and confidence! Whether you`re considering braces, clear aligners, or other orthodontic solutions, we`re here to transform your smile and boost your self-esteem. #BuildingSmiles #BuildingConfidence #TransformYourSmile #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals ...

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We only listen to heavy metal aka the sound of braces being put on and taken off! #OrthodonticJoke #HeavyMetal #braces #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals ...

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Of course we smile when we feel happy, but there`s evidence to show that the link between smiling and happiness might go both ways — the simple act of smiling can make us feel a little better! Even a fake smile releases endorphins (the feel-good hormone), so it might be worth smiling in the face of a rough day; it might just improve.

That simple endorphin boost from smiling gives us a lot of other benefits far beyond a mood boost. Endorphins reduce pain and relieve stress because they function a lot like painkillers. Unlike painkillers, however, they don`t cause side effects!

Over time, endorphins can have cumulative positive effects on our health. The simple habit of smiling more can lead to long-term health benefits such as increased resilience against illnesses and a decreased risk of getting cancer. The better we are at managing our stress, the fewer stress-induced mutations our cells will go through, making cancer less likely.

Studies show that people perceive smiling faces to be younger and more attractive, but a lifetime of regular smiling and the benefits it brings can actually contribute to living longer. And it`s easier to smile confidently with healthy teeth and gums! #smiling #endorphins #HealthBenefits #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
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Keep your smile in place! After braces, retainers maintain your teeth`s new alignment. Consistent wear is key to preventing shifts and preserving your straightened smile. #retainer #StraightTeeth #AlignedSmile #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals ...

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Conquer your brace-face fears! Our latest blog has the answers. Check it out on our website. 🦷 #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
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