Concerns for children's dental health during lockdown

Under level 3 dentists can provide care with strict safety measures in place.

But with schools shut there's concerns children in lockdown areas aren't getting routine checks or treatment.

NZ Dental Association access to care spokesperson Katie Ayers says it's problematic.

She says some community oral health service clinics are open - but many are open plan and the guidelines require you to be in a room with a closed door.

Ayers says she's seeing parents phoning and children everyday that are in ongoing pain and haven't been able to access care for some time.