Setting The Standard In Excellent Orthodontic Care

Meet Dr. Sheetal Patil: Blending Science, Smiles, and Service

Meet Dr. Sheetal Patil: Blending Science, Smiles, and Service Dr. Sheetal Patil, an accomplished orthodontist and dedicated member of the California Association of Orthodontists (CAO), brings both passion and purpose to her work. A graduate of Jacksonville...

Meet Dr. Jeffrey Kwong: Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future of Orthodontics

Meet Dr. Jeffrey Kwong: Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future of Orthodontics For Dr. Jeffrey Kwong, orthodontics is more than a profession—it’s a legacy. A proud graduate of Case Western Reserve University’s orthodontic residency program, Dr. Kwong now practices in...

Meet Dr. Rita Chuang: Capturing Smiles, One Day—and One Photo—at a Time

Meet Dr. Rita Chuang: Capturing Smiles, One Day—and One Photo—at a Time Dr. Rita Chuang’s journey into orthodontics began with a single, transformative experience—as a patient. “I experienced firsthand the power of a confident smile,” she reflects. “It can light up...

Meet Dr. Sona Bekmezian: Advocating for Smiles—and the Orthodontists Who Create Them

Meet Dr. Sona Bekmezian: Advocating for Smiles—and the Orthodontists Who Create Them For Dr. Sona Bekmezian, orthodontics is more than a profession—it’s a way to serve others, build confidence, and continue a legacy of leadership. A proud graduate of UCSF’s...

Meet Dr. Damon Szymanowski: Where Smiles Meet Strategy and Service

Meet Dr. Damon Szymanowski: Where Smiles Meet Strategy and Service Dr. Damon Szymanowski, affectionately representing “Sactown”, brings energy, innovation, and a deep sense of purpose to the orthodontic profession. A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania’s...

Meet Dr. Tarek Abousheta: Diving Deep into Smiles and Service

Meet Dr. Tarek Abousheta: Diving Deep into Smiles and Service Dr. Tarek Abousheta, an orthodontist based in Irvine, California, brings a thoughtful, relationship-driven approach to his practice. A graduate of the University of the Pacific (UOP) orthodontic residency...

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.