Reduce Halloween Dental Woes with Delta Dental of Iowa and Hy-Vee KidsFit's Candy Swap

Posted on October 22, 2019 in Corporate

Delta Dental of Iowa is partnering with Hy-Vee KidsFit on a candy swap program that will benefit children, parents and veterans this Halloween. For every pound of candy donated on November 2, 2019, at the Waukee Hy-Vee between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m., Delta Dental of Iowa will donate 10 toothbrushes to Operation First Response. Every child will receive a free toothbrush and water bottle. Parents will also receive exclusive coupons for Waukee Hy-Vee’s Market Grille restaurant that can be redeemed during the month of November.

“Halloween is a good time to raise awareness about keeping your smile healthy. Good dental hygiene leads not only to a healthy mouth, but helps overall health,” says Dr. Jeffrey Chaffin, vice president and dental director for Delta Dental of Iowa. “Two populations that are especially at risk are children and veterans. The need is so great among homeless veterans in particular, that the majority list dental care as one of their top unmet needs. That is why for every pound of candy donated, we’re giving 10 toothbrushes to Operation First Response.”

Your dental health has a direct link to your overall health. Regular brushing and flossing can help keep cavities and gum disease at bay. Excess bacteria from sugars in your mouth can travel through your digestive system causing problems. There are also links between oral health and diseases such as endocarditis, cardiovascular disease, pregnancy and birth complications, and pneumonia.

“Halloween is such a fun holiday for children and parents, alike but sweets – like many things – are best in moderation,” said Daira Driftmier, director of Hy-Vee KidsFit. “We want to encourage everyone to have fun, and then join us for an event that benefits our nation’s veterans and teaches children and their families about good dental health and how important it is to our overall health.”

Making an appearance at the Delta Dental of Iowa Candy Swap event will be the Tooth Fairy, who will hand out toothbrushes and water bottles to children along with a member of the Hy-Vee KidsFit™ team who will take kids and parents through fun exercise routines. A Hy-Vee registered dietitian will provide educational handouts and discuss the effects of too much sugar on health. 

The event takes place November 2, 2019, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Waukee Hy-Vee, 1005 E. Hickman Road, just west of Northeast Alice’s Road.