Kool Smiles announced a program Monday
designed to give kids' teeth a post-Halloween break.

Called Operation Troop Treats,
the program offers children the opportunity to bring their Halloween candy into
the Kool Smiles Dental Office on Woodruff Road in exchange for a choice of a
toy. The candy will then be sent in care packages to U.S. troops serving
overseas via Operation
Gratitude.

"Halloween can be especially rough on kids' teeth," explained
Kool Smiles Regional Dental Director Ashley Nichols, DDS. "The increased
frequency of candy intake for many children around this holiday can increase
the risk of and/or cause cavities or exacerbate existing oral health
problems. This program encourages parents and children in the area to
reduce the frequency their teeth are exposed to sugars by exchanging some of
their candy for a fun toy."

In addition to the exchange program, Kool Smiles is donating
tooth brushes, toothpaste, and funds to cover operational costs for Operation
Gratitude.

The Columbus office is participating
from Thursday, November 1 to Saturday, November 3during open office
hours. Every child that comes in can receive one toy for every 25 pieces
of unopened candy in its original intended packaging (individual sticks of gum,
for example, will not be accepted).

The program is open to everyone,
regardless of whether they are a Kool Smiles patient. There is a limit of
3 toys per child and toys will be distributed on a first come, first served
basis.