One area dentist is redefining the phrase “put your money where your mouth is.” This Halloween, trick-or-treaters can bring their candy to Aspire Dental in downtown Portland and receive $1 per pound of candy. Dr. Lisa Kakishita, DMD is leading this anti-decay movement by giving away dollars and prize bags in exchange for cavity-provoking candy. All candy will be donated to U.S. Military deployed in combat through Operation Gratitude.

In addition to money, kids will receive prize bags filled with meal certificates and other fun items provided by the following sponsoring businesses: Blue Collar Baking Company, Applebee’s, The Old Spaghetti Factory and Papa Murphy’s.

Kids will also have the chance to earn prizes for their schools. Schools with the most participants will win: 1st place- Blazers tickets to 2 games and a $200 gift certificate to Rosales Taqueria Food Cart, 2nd place- Blazers tickets to 1 game and a $100 gift certificate to Rosales Taqueria Food Cart, 3rd place- $50 gift certificate to Rosales Taqueria Food Cart.

Global sugar consumption for kids increases about 2% annually and currently sits at 50 million tons per year. This means that parents need to be sure their kids teeth are being cared for more than ever. Candy not only harms teeth, but can lead to hyperactivity and weight gain.

Candy will be collected at Aspire Dental during business hours, from November 1st- 8th. See www.aspiredental.net for hours of operation.

If you would like more information about this topic, or to schedule an interview with Dr. Lisa Kakishita, DMD, please contact her at 503-221-9439 or lisakdmd@ymail.com.

Event sponsors to date: Aspire Dental, Blue Collar Baking Company, Applebee’s, The Old Spaghetti Factory, Papa Murphy’s