The Lee Dentistry office in Oxford offered a sweet deal this week.

Coinciding with Halloween, the office bought back candy from children at $1 per pound. The confections will then be donated to the troops overseas as part of the non-profit organization Operation Gratitude.

This was the fifth year that the office held their Candy Buy Back. Dr. Preston Lee said he first heard about the program through a patient.

“We researched (the program) and loved the idea,” he said. “So, we held our first buy back in 2012, and participation has grown every year. We have been thrilled with the community’s response.”

Lee says that with each year, the office has received an increased amount of candy.

“Last year we had 4 huge boxes that totaled more than 150 pounds of candy,” he said.

He added that the Buy Back is enjoyed by both the children and their parents alike.

“The children love getting cash for their candy, and parents love getting excess candy out of the house,” he said. “Of course, it also goes further than that – teaching children a lesson on moderation and on giving back.”

And of course, the troops appreciate the candy too.

“Our dedicated troops overseas are beyond thrilled to get a sweet treat and a memory from home,” Lee said. “It’s a win-win for everyone, and we get the opportunity to promote oral health by giving out free dental kits, prizes and coupons.”