Wondering what to do with all that candy after Halloween? Michael Dental Care hosts its third annual Halloween Candy Buy Back event on Monday, Nov. 2. The candy will be added to packages sent to U.S troops overseas.

Dr. Vincent Michael of Michael Dental Care started the event to help educate families about keeping their teeth healthy during the holidays. Each child will receive $1 per pound of candy and a free Halloween toothbrush.

“As a dentist, I am always trying to help educate children and their parents about the importance of maintaining good oral health,” he said. “ And, as a parent myself, I know how challenging it can be around the holidays to make sure our kids are making healthy choices.”

When Michael heard about Operation Gratitude, the program that sends the packages overseas, and the Candy Buy Back program, he knew he had to be a part of it.

“I love that this event not only helps to keep the kids’ teeth healthy, but it is also a wonderful way to teach the children about the importance of supporting our troops,” he said.

The packages also include notes and pictures drawn by the kids when they drop off the candy. Michael said the program is a great example of how a few people can do a lot of good.

“What I find most rewarding, though, is the smile the care packages bring to our brave military members overseas,” he said. “I love that an event like this in small towns like Guilford can have such a big impact across the globe.”

The community response to the program has been overwhelming, according to Michael.

“We usually ‘buy’ back about 100 pounds of candy,” he said. “And last year when I went to ship the candy at the UPS Store in Guilford, the owner Jeff Von Flatern wouldn’t let me pay for the shipping once he heard where the candy was going. It was so generous and such a wonderful reminder of what an amazing community we are a part of here in Guilford!”

Michael Dental Care is located at 2614 Boston Post Road, Guilford. The event will run from 2 to 5 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 2.