Dr Rabbit and Southern Steel players (from left) Jodi Brown, Stacey Peters and Phillipa Finch coax a smile out of Keisha Hollands (8) at the Dunedin Hospital children's ward this week.
The visit was part of World Oral Health Day activities which celebrated the importance of good oral health.
Community Oral Health Service promotions adviser Kate Hall said it was hoped the netball players would encourage smiles in the children while Dr Rabbit handed out toothpaste and toothbrushes to help the children look after their teeth.
The children were encouraged to brush their teeth twice a day, not to rinse after brushing, floss daily, avoid sugary snacks between meals and avoid fizzy and energy drinks completely.
Their parents were reminded children received free regular dental checks until the age of 18.
