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.
CAO on Social Media
It’s true—your oral health and heart health are connected! Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease, which allows harmful bacteria to enter your bloodstream, potentially increasing the risk of heart disease. Keeping your teeth and gums clean with regular brushing and flossing isn’t just about a bright smile—it’s also an important step in maintaining your overall health. #HeartHealth #HeartDisease #OverallHealth #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Elderly people are not the only people at risk of gum recession, even though that idea is where the expression "long in the tooth" originated. Some people are unlucky enough to be genetically prone to gum recession, but there are several avoidable factors that contribute to gum recession (in kids as well as adults!):
#1: Overbrushing. Anyone brushing hard enough to leave their toothbrush bristles bent outward is probably overdoing it. When we`re brushing our teeth, we`re cleaning living tissue, not floor tiles! We need to be gentle. Use soft-bristled brushes and don`t use excessive pressure. Likewise, don`t snap the floss directly onto the gums! Gently work it down the side of one tooth instead.
#2: Gum disease. As it progresses, gum disease can wreak havoc on the supporting structures around the teeth, making it a major cause of gum recession. The best defenses are limiting sugar intake and keeping up with oral hygiene habits, along with regular dental appointments.
#3: Bruxism. A grinding habit puts a lot of pressure on the teeth and gums and can cause damage over time. Lifestyle changes, cognitive behavioral therapy, and meditation can help break the habit. #GumRecession #GumHealth #GumDisease #brusiam #overbrushing #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Taking good care of your braces is crucial for achieving the best results and maintaining your orthodontic health. Let’s focus on the importance of proper oral hygiene, avoiding sticky or hard foods, and keeping up with your regular adjustments. By following your orthodontist’s advice and staying committed to your treatment plan, you’ll be on your way to a beautifully aligned smile. #OrthodonticHealthMonth #BracesCare #HealthySmile #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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