CAO was founded in 1967 as a component organization of the Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists (PCSO), which is in turn a constituent society of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). The California Association of Orthodontics represents the values, priorities and interests of California-based orthodontists. We support our members by providing ongoing education, advocacy for good legislation, valuable resources that improve the quality of your service and practice, and public awareness of the orthodontic expertise. CAO represents nearly 1,500 specialists in orthodontics who practice in California.