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
Our patients are the reason we love what we do, and we couldn’t be more grateful for each and every one of you! Thank you for being the heart of our practice. We are honored to be part of your health journey and grateful for the opportunity to care for you and your families. Every day, you inspire us to go above and beyond. #heart #ThankYou #PatientAppreciation #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Your smile sets the tone for confidence, positivity, and overall health. As we step into a fresh new year, it’s the perfect time to prioritize your oral health and set habits that will keep your smile glowing all year long! #NewYear #HealthySmile #HappySmile #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Dreaming of a straighter smile but worried about the appearance of traditional braces? Straightening your teeth has never been easier or more convenient! Clear aligners are discreet, comfortable, and effective, so you can straighten your teeth without compromising on comfort or aesthetics. Ready to transform your smile with invisible aligners? Contact us today to schedule your consultation! #StraighterSmile #ClearAligners #InvisibleAligners #VisibleResults #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Did you know that plaque can harden into tartar faster than you might think? Can you guess how long it takes? Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to prevent tartar build-up, which can lead to gum disease and other oral health issues. #tartar #plaque #GumDisease #OralHealth #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
The New Year is here, bringing a fresh start and endless possibilities! It’s the perfect time to reflect on where you’ve been and dream about where you’re headed. Let’s raise a glass to new beginnings and exciting challenges ahead. Happy New Year to you and yours! #HappyNewYear #NewYear #cheers #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Over four million people in the United States are currently undergoing orthodontic treatment to improve their smiles and oral health! From children and teens to adults, orthodontics offers solutions for everyone, helping to correct misaligned teeth, improve bite function, and boost confidence. #FunFact #OrthodonticTreatment #MisalignedTeeth #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
So many adults believe the only chance to get a straight smile is by getting braces in high school, but that`s not true! Let`s debunk some of the biggest excuses getting in the way of people enjoying the benefits of having straight teeth:
1. "It`s too late; my teeth won`t move."
It can be easier to guide teeth into place in a younger patient, but adult patients have a major advantage: their maturity makes them better at understanding and following the orthodontist`s instructions.
2. "Crooked teeth don`t really cause me problems."
There`s nothing we need our teeth for that straight teeth aren`t better at doing. It`s easier to clean them and they facilitate more effective chewing, speaking, and even breathing.
3. "Braces look too unprofessional."
It`s true that our culture tends to associate braces with adolescence and immaturity. Fortunately, modern orthodontic treatments include options with a much lower profile than traditional metal braces, such as clear aligners and ceramic braces.
4. "Orthodontic treatment is expensive."
Orthodontic treatment is a major investment in the patient`s oral health. It can save a lot of money down the road by preventing the damage that arises from crooked teeth or a bad bite. It`s also hard to put a price tag on the self-confidence boost that comes with a straight smile.
#BracesMyths #StraightTeeth #StraightSmile #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Wishing you all the joy your heart can hold this Christmas. Have a magical and wonderful holiday season! #Christmas #joy #HappyHolidays #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
A new year brings new opportunities! What’s your top resolution for 2025? Share in the comments and let’s inspire each other to start the new year strong! #resolution #Hello2025 #NewYearsResolution #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
It’s finally here—the end of the week and the start of some well-deserved downtime! Whether you`re planning to unwind, catch up with friends, dive into a new adventure, or simply relax, we hope you have a wonderful weekend! #friday #weekend #FridayFeeling #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
We’re passionate about helping you achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of. Our expert orthodontic care is designed to bring out the best in your smile, one adjustment at a time! #DreamSmile #OrthodonticCare #BestSmile #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Ever heard of a palatal expander? This orthodontic device is designed to gradually widen the upper jaw to create more space in the mouth. It’s commonly used in growing children and teens to correct issues like crowding, crossbites, or impacted teeth. By gently expanding the palate, this treatment helps guide proper jaw growth and can make future orthodontic treatments, like braces, more effective. #PalatalExpander #OrthodonticDevice #space #OrthodonticDefinition #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Every tube of toothpaste with the ADA`s Seal of Acceptance has the same two things in common: it is sugar-free and it contains fluoride. Fluoride is a key building block in our tooth enamel. The sugary or acidic things we eat and drink pull minerals out of our enamel, and we can build it back up by brushing with fluoride toothpaste. This is also why trace amounts of fluoride are added to our drinking water.
Water fluoridation started in Colorado Springs, where the water naturally contains a lot of it. At these high levels of fluoride, local dentists started noticing that many people had brown stains on their teeth despite having no tooth decay. They called it "Colorado brown stain," and today we call it fluorosis.
Dentists wondered if there was an amount of fluoride that would offer the same benefits of preventing decay without causing stains. They first tested it in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and found that childhood tooth decay dropped by a shocking 60% with only a few mild cases of fluorosis and no other adverse effects. It was such a success that water fluoridation took off across the country, and it is still regarded as one of the ten greatest public health achievements of the 20th century. #toothpaste #fluoride #WaterFluoridation #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
This gentle pressure and remodeling process explains why orthodontic treatment can sometimes cause a bit of soreness—it’s a sign that the bone and ligaments around your teeth are adjusting. But don’t worry, it’s all part of creating a healthy, well-aligned smile that’s worth the wait! #OrthodonticTreatment #pressure #AlignedSmile #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Here’s to December—the magical month of cozy nights, festive lights, and hearts full of warmth! As the year draws to a close, December brings a unique kind of cheer, inviting us to slow down, savor the season, and find joy in the small things. #December #NewMonth #FestiveLights #CozyNights #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Today is a reminder to pause and reflect on all the good things that fill our lives – the people who support us, the opportunities we`ve been given, and the simple joys we often overlook. Wishing you a warm and wonderful holiday filled with love, laughter, and lasting memories. #HappyThanksgiving #thanksgiving #thankful #grateful #blessed #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Unfortunately with braces, accidents happen, and accidents can result in emergencies. Accidents can easily cause problems for braces in between orthodontist appointments. All it takes is one helping of a banned foods list item to pop a bracket loose. Serious orthodontic emergencies need to be dealt with in-office without delay, or they could push back the end of treatment, but minor issues can often be dealt with at home.
An adjustment usually results in temporary soreness or discomfort. Eating soft foods and swishing with warm salt water can help, along with over-the-counter painkillers. If those don`t help, you`ll need to consider other causes. Is there a poking wire? In many cases, it can be pushed back with a pencil eraser or covered with wax, but we can clip the ends if necessary.
However, if a bracket pops off or breaks, it cannot be fixed at home. Come to the office as soon as possible for a repair so that treatment can stay on schedule!
A serious emergency might include severe pain around the mouth or face, major swelling in the area, swollen or infected gums, or a traumatic injury to the teeth, mouth, and face. An accident that affects more than the orthodontic appliance may merit an emergency room visit first, but come to us as soon as possible after that. #OrthodonticEmergency #EmergencyPlan #OrthodonticInjury #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth, helping to prevent cavities and gum disease. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in your oral health! Remember, a healthy smile starts with daily care! #FlossingDay #flossing #HealthySmile #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
At our orthodontic practice, we believe everyone deserves to feel confident in their smile. Our dedicated team is here to guide you on your journey to achieving the smile you`ve always wanted. Whether you`re considering traditional braces or modern clear aligners, we offer a range of options tailored to your unique needs and lifestyle. #confidence #DreamSmile #UniqueNeeds #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
The best way to get the best possible outcome in any kind of emergency is to have an action plan ready beforehand, so here are some tips to keep in mind for different types of dental emergencies:
A knocked out baby tooth: these usually aren`t emergencies, especially if the damage is only to the tooth, but it`s a good idea to at least call the dentist for advice on how to proceed.
A knocked out adult tooth: there is a limited window in which the dentist may be able to replant an intact knocked out tooth. Get it to the dentist as quickly as possible, storing it either in the socket or in a glass of milk. Do NOT touch the root, do NOT let it dry out, and do NOT scrub it clean with soap, alcohol, or peroxide, because it will kill the root!
A broken tooth: find the pieces and bring them to the dentist in a glass of cold milk. Don`t ignore cracked teeth, no matter how small the cracks! The damage could lead to infection, abscess, bone loss, and even life-threatening spread of infection.
Aside from knowing what to do before getting to the dentist, it`s crucial to know where to go! Be familiar with the location of an emergency dentist, and keep their phone number handy. #DentalEmergency #PlanOfAction #BrokenTooth #KnockedOutTooth #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals