Moorpark Dentist Buys Kids' Trick-or-Treat Booty

By Justin Hirai

One area dentist is redefining the phrase “put your money where your mouth is.”

This Halloween, trick-or-treaters of all ages can bring candy to Zachary Potts' dental office in Moorpark and receive $3 per pound. As he does annually, Potts is joining an anti-cavity—and pro-military—movement by giving away dollars in exchange for tooth-eating candy.

“Candy is nice, cavities are Not. 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 Potts. “Kids can still have all of the fun of trick-or-treating, and now their piggy banks will benefit as well.”

Global sugar consumption for kids increases by about 2 percent annually and currently sits at 50 million tons per year, which means parents need to be sure their kids teeth are being cared for more than ever. Candy, as well as hurting children’s teeth, can lead to hyperactivity and weight gain. In some cases, the wrong types of candy can also lead to broken teeth and damaged braces.

Candy will be collected at Dr. Zachary Potts dental office from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Nov. 2 and 5. The candy must be unopened. It will be shipped to troops overseas as part of Operation Gratitude.

The office is located at 4217 Tierra Rejada Road, Moorpark in the Vons shopping center.

Potts performs general family dental care as well as cosmetic procedures. He and his staff are available to provide more information at (805)243-3999 or visit www.moorparkdentalcare.com.