Some members of the American armed forces won’t need to dress up in costumes to earn their Halloween candy this year.

James Dickerson and Adam Wolff, dentists at Pediatric Dentistry of Salem, are organizing an event to help protect the teeth of area youth while also helping soldiers in Iraq.

On Monday, Nov. 3, residents will be able to come to the 389 Main St. office and sell back Halloween candy, with the sweets being shipped to soldiers as part of care packages.

“We really wanted to just support the troops over there,” said Dickerson. “This is a great thing because we can get the candy away from the kids while also doing something for the troops who are fighting for our country.”

Dickerson said the son of one of the office’s dentist assistants is serving overseas, which was part of the motivation of the event as well.

“It rings at home so much more when you have a face to put on it,” said Dickerson.

The event is being run along with Operation Gratitude, a nonprofit organization that aims to lift the morale of troops.

Anyone bringing wrapped candy will be able to sell it back for $1 per pound. The buybacks will be accepted between 2 and 6 p.m. at the office. Sellers will also receive a new toothbrush.

“Anybody who wants to come in, we’ll be more than happy to buy it back,” Dickerson said.

Dickerson said after talking with parents coming into his office, he realized there would be an interest for people looking to get rid of excess Halloween treats.

“We have so many parents who complain about how much candy their kids get and that they don’t know what to do with it,” Dickerson said. “It made so much sense once we saw this. We’ll be helping these people out, the candy won’t be wasted and it will be all for a good cause.”