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
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
If you’re experiencing symptoms like jaw tension, clicking, or headaches, it might be time to explore how orthodontic care can make a difference. Improving your bite improves your quality of life! #bite #OrthodonticCare #TMJ #JawPain #headaches #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Your smile is one of your greatest assets—it’s the first thing people notice and a big part of what makes you you! Investing in your smile isn’t just about appearance; it’s about your overall health, confidence, and quality of life. When you feel good about your smile, it shows in everything you do. Take the first step today—your smile is worth it! #InvestInYourSmile #HealthySmiles #ConfidenceStartsHere #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Boys and men are, on average, 20% less likely to brush their teeth twice a day, and they`re even less likely than girls and women to replace old toothbrushes. The good news is this problem is easy to fix. Brushing should be part of every morning and nighttime routine (and flossing should be included in the latter as well).
Men also have a greater tendency towards drinking, smoking, and especially chewing tobacco compared to women, which puts them at increased risk of oral health problems like periodontitis, tooth loss, and even oral cancer. This is why dentists urge minimal alcohol consumption and the complete avoidance of tobacco products. Men can protect their oral health by avoiding these harmful substances.
Because men are more susceptible to high blood pressure and heart disease, they are more likely to be taking medications that cause dry mouth as a side effect. Dry mouth increases the risk of cavities, gum disease, and chronic bad breath.
Lastly, men are less likely than women to keep up with their regular dental exams, and they`re more likely to try to tough out symptoms like toothaches. This is neither safe nor effective, because dental problems don`t solve themselves. It`s not weak or unmanly to go to the dentist, it`s a smart investment in your oral health! #MensHealth #MensOralHealth #HealthySmile #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
We want to know—what’s your favorite TV show right now? Whether you’re into gripping dramas, hilarious comedies, mind-bending thrillers, or heartwarming documentaries, there’s always something entertaining on television. Drop your current favorite show in the comments below! #ScreenTime #TVShowRecommendations #FavoriteShows #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Permanent retainers are a reliable way to keep your smile looking its best after braces! With just a bit of maintenance, your retainer will continue to work behind the scenes, helping you preserve the results you`ve worked so hard for! #PermanentRetainers #SaveYourSmile #LongLastStraightTeeth #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Whether you’re working toward straightening your teeth with braces or just maintaining good oral habits, it’s important to smile with confidence—and know you’re doing what’s right for your teeth. Let’s make your smile both bright and right! #SmileBright #SmileRight #SmileWithConfidence #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
We’ve officially stepped into the month of love! Show your smile some love by making an appointment with us. Make February your time to shine! What are you most excited about this month? #NewMonth #February #love #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Our upper and lower teeth function best when they fit together in a specific way. This is what makes it possible to chew our food effectively and speak clearly, among other things. If our teeth`s positions stop them from fitting together correctly, we call that a malocclusion or a "bad bite." Numerous problems can come from uncorrected malocclusions, like jaw issues, speech impediments, uneven erosion of the teeth, and even inefficient digestion.
There are a few things that can cause bad bites. Genetics is one, but so are bad oral habits in childhood (including thumbsucking, lip sucking, tongue thrusting, nail-biting, teeth clenching, and mouth breathing). They also come in a few different types:
1. Excessive overbite: the upper teeth overjet or overlap the lower teeth more than they should.
2. Deep bite: the overbite is so severe that the upper front teeth completely overlap the lower front teeth, which might even bite into the gums behind the upper teeth, causing injuries.
3. Open bite: the upper front teeth flare out so that even when the jaws are closed, there`s still a gap between them and the bottom teeth.
4. Crossbite: when the jaw is closed, some of the lower teeth are on the outside while some of the upper teeth are on the outside.
5. Underbite: the lower teeth jut out in front of the upper teeth when the jaw is closed. #BadBite #bite #TypesOfBites #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals
Braces are more than just a way to straighten your smile—they offer a range of benefits for your overall dental health and well-being. Here are just a few! #BracesBenefits #StraightTeeth #braces #braces #BenefitsOfBraces #StraightTeeth #orthodontics #healthysmile #aligningteeth #CAO #findorthodontist #orthodontist #CaliforniaAssociationofOrthodontists #braces #aligners #invisalign #straightteeth #smile #ClearAligners #smilegoals