UNE hosts Halloween candy buyback to benefit U.S. military troops

The University of New England Oral Health Center is hosting a Halloween Candy Buyback on November 1, 2015, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., offering community members the chance to donate their Halloween treats to United States military troops who are serving overseas.

In addition to receiving $1 per pound of candy donated, participants will also be provided with goodie bags filled with dental items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss and more. Children and adults of all ages are encouraged to join the event, which will be staffed by UNE College of Dental Medicine students.

“We’re hoping that by buying the kids’ Halloween candy and giving them a toothbrush and toothpaste, we can encourage them to make better nutritional choices and take better care of their teeth,” said Class of 2018 student Maeve Daly. “We will send candy toothbrushes and toothpaste to troops overseas and their families here in the United States in the hopes of helping them enjoy this holiday, and also to educate them about the importance of oral hygiene.”

This event also serves as an opportunity for community members to learn more about the comprehensive range of services offered at the Oral Health Center, make an appointment and get to know the students who provide treatment under the supervision of licensed faculty dentists. Practicing orthodontist Meghann Dombroski, D.M.D., M.P.H., assistant clinical professor in the College of Dental Medicine, will be available to answer prospective patient questions from 11 a.m. to noon.

Now through November, new patients will receive a free comprehensive oral evaluation and complete series of x-rays. To make an appointment, please call (207) 221-4747, or visit http://www.une.edu/ohc to learn more.