
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
A straighter smile can do more than just improve your bite, it can boost your confidence too! Over 75% of people report higher self-esteem after orthodontic treatment. Whether it’s braces or clear aligners, investing in your smile can make a lasting difference in how you feel. Ready to start your journey to a more confident you? Let’s make it happen! #ConfidentSmile #SelfEsteem #SmileTransformation #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
What do you need today? Find the last digit of your phone number and see what fate has in store for you! Is it some tacos, a dance break, or maybe just a nap? Share your result in the comments! #JustForFun #PickYourFate #PhoneNumber #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Your smile is with you for life so give it the care it deserves! Brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups help keep your teeth strong and healthy. Don`t take them for granted, protect your smile today! #HealthySmile #OralCareMatters #LoveYourTeeth #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Wishing all of our wonderful patients a sweet Easter! May your day be filled with joy and fun! Thank you for being part of our family. We appreciate you and hope you have an egg-cellent holiday! #HappyEaster #EasterJoy #EggcellentPatients #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Whether you`re considering braces or clear aligners, we`re here to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your lifestyle and goals. A straighter, healthier smile is just an appointment away. Book your consultation today! #StraightSmile #ConfidentSmiles #SmileJourney #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Before the 1970s, orthodontists had to wrap brackets around each individual tooth, a technique that was bulky and often uncomfortable. It wasn’t until the introduction of dental adhesives that everything changed! Thanks to this groundbreaking advancement, braces today are lighter, more streamlined, and much more comfortable, helping people achieve their dream smiles with less hassle. #BracesEvolution #OrthodonticInnovation #ComfortableSmiles #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Celebrate World Health Day by making wellness a priority! Good health is the foundation for a happy, fulfilling life. Taking care of your body and mind isn’t just self-care—it’s an investment in your future! What’s one thing you do to take care of your health? #WorldHealthDay #HealthIsWealth #HealthyLiving #StrongerYou #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Your oral health is a window to your overall well-being, and that includes being aware of the risks of oral cancer. Early detection is key—regular dental check-ups can help catch signs before they become serious. Watch for sores that don’t heal, red or white patches, lumps, or difficulty swallowing. Take charge of your health—get screened, stay informed, and spread awareness. A healthy mouth leads to a healthier life! #OralCancerAwareness #HealthyMouthHealthyLife #OralCancer #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Orthodontic treatment takes patience, but the results are a healthy, confident, and beautifully aligned smile! Stay consistent with your treatment plan, wear your aligners or elastics as instructed, and trust the process. Your perfect smile is in the making and the results will be worth it! #TrustTheProcess #SmileTransformation #GoodThingsTakeTime #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Here’s wishing you a day filled with joy, laughter, and, of course, plenty of smiles! Whether it’s a kind word from a friend, a little moment of happiness, or simply taking a moment to appreciate life, we hope every part of your day brings you something to smile about. Remember, a smile is the best way to brighten up the world around you. Have a fantastic day! #SmileMore #SpreadJoy #KeepSmiling #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Braces are strong but they aren’t invincible! There are certain foods that can damage brackets and wires, slowing down your treatment. Hard, sticky, or chewy foods like popcorn, caramel, and nuts can lead to broken braces and extra trips to the orthodontist but don’t worry! There are still plenty of delicious foods you can enjoy, like soft fruits, pasta, yogurt, and smoothies! Keeping your braces in good shape means you’ll be on the fast track to a straight, beautiful smile. #BracesCare #OrthoTips #BracesFriendlyFoods #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Time to `brace` yourself—spring has arrived, and so has the perfect season to work on your dream smile! Whether you`re just starting your orthodontic journey or seeing the beautiful results unfold, every step brings you closer to a confident, healthy grin. Embrace the change and let your smile bloom this season! #spring #NewSeason #NewSmile #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
When you prioritize your oral health, you significantly help your mental health. A confident smile helps you feel good about yourself which means you can focus on other aspects of your life. Take time for your smile and care for yourself! #WorldOralHealthDay #MentalHealth #ConfidentSmile #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Wishing you a lucky, fun-filled St. Patrick’s Day—may the luck of the Irish be with you! Comment how you celebrate! #StPatricksDay #lucky #LuckOfTheIrish #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, the ideal time for a child to have their first orthodontic evaluation is around the age of 7. At this age, early signs of potential issues, like bite problems, misalignment, or jaw growth concerns, can be identified and addressed before they become more serious. Early evaluation doesn’t always mean early treatment, but it allows an orthodontist to monitor the development of your child’s teeth and jaws, ensuring that any needed interventions happen at the right time! #OrthodontistVisit #AAO #OrthodontistRecommendation #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
A confident, healthy smile never goes out of style, and there’s no better time to start your orthodontic journey then now! Whether you’re a teen, adult, or somewhere in between, modern orthodontic options, like braces and clear aligners, make it easier than ever to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. Don’t wait for the “perfect” moment — your perfect smile starts today! #PerfectSmile #StartToday #DontWait #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Did you know that properly aligned teeth aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re also key to better oral health? A straight smile makes it easier to brush and floss effectively, reducing the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and even jaw pain. A straight smile also helps improve bite function, speech, and long-term dental health, so you can enjoy a confident, healthy smile for life! #StraightSmile #HealthySmile #AlignedTeeth #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Some say diagonal cuts make sandwiches taste better, while others swear by the straight-down-the-middle method for perfect symmetry! Which team are you on? #SandwichDebate #SandwhichCut #WhichOne #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
While straighter teeth certainly contribute to a more confident smile, their benefits go far beyond appearance. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. They also improve how your teeth and jaws work together, helping with chewing, speaking, and even preventing excessive wear and tear on your teeth over time. Orthodontic treatment isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s an investment in your oral health and overall well-being! #TrueOrFalse #StraightTeeth #OralHealth #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Ever wondered how braces work their magic? The process is fascinating! When braces or other orthodontic appliances are placed, they apply gentle, consistent pressure to your teeth. This pressure gradually shifts the teeth into their desired positions. Over time, the bone surrounding the teeth undergoes a process called "bone remodeling," where it breaks down and rebuilds to accommodate the new tooth positions. #BoneRemodeling #OrthodonticTreatment #braces #OrthodonticAppliances #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals