JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- An area dentist has made a pre-emptive strike in the fight against cavities by offering to buy children's Halloween candy.

Krantz Dental Care in Mandarin is giving $2 for every pound of candy a child brings in. The candy collected will go to people who will really think of it as a treat -- soldiers stationed overseas.

For the children, the troops and a local charity the donated candy will create a win-win-win situation.

"Everybody wins. Every pound of candy that comes in a dollar is given to the child, and another dollar is given by Krantz Dental Care. We match every dollar, and that dollar is going to 'Feed A Needy Neighbor' of Jacksonville," said Dr. Alan Krantz.

The candy buy-back is teaching youngsters to give back, and probably preventing a few cavities.

"Part of their trick-or-treating was for UNICEF for children, and our money from today from our the Krantz's is going to UNICEF also. So, they got a little candy themselves, but they're also giving to a really good cause," said Cathy Klein, who was with her three children dropping off candy.

A nice touch the dental office candy buy-back is that when children drop off the candy they can also leave a note for the troops, like one from child named Tyler, who left a not that reads, "I hope you enjoy the candy. Be safe in fighting. God bless you."

For local pantries that struggle to keep their shelves filled, the Krantz donation will be more than welcome.

"I think, particularly this time of year going into the holidays Thanksgiving and Christmas, their shelves are getting more and more bare," said business manager Adria Krantz.

The dentist said he expects to give generously this year.

"Right now we have about 47 pounds and we only had a few people stop by. So I think we're going to have a couple hundred pounds by the end of this day," Krantz said.

Another perk, Krantz Dental Care is thanking all who donated with free exams and X-rays.

Donations are being accepted all week. For more information about the buy-back, visit KrantzDentalCare.com.