One local dentist is redefining the phrase "put your money where your mouth is." Trick-or-treaters can bring their excess candy to Antoine Varani at the Dental Spa and receive $2 for every 5 pounds of sweets. Along with the cash, participating kids will also receive a gift bag to replace the cavity-provoking candy.

"Ditch the candy; that's what we're saying. Visiting your dentist twice a year and brushing daily are great preventative measures, but doing away with excess sweets altogether would really give your teeth a healthy boost," said Varani. "It can't get any better than this. Our children learn the importance of charity, practice good dental health, and make money all while enjoying trick-or-treating."

Candy will be collected at Center Dental Spa now through 5 p.m. Nov. 8. The candy must be unopened. The candy will then be shipped to U.S. Military troops serving overseas.

The Dental Spa is located at 527 E. Olive Ave., Turlock. For more information, call 667-8874.