Well, we think so. You orthodontist does xrays to make sure that his treatment plan is going to work properly and that you child will not develop any jaw or gum problems later on. If you child has a cavity under his or her braces, the cavity will grow during orthodontic treatment, and your child may get a tooth ache. We would never have our treatment done by an orthodontist who does not do the xrays. It is just looking for trouble to avoid them.
People sell xray shields to help minimize the xray exposure.
The precision xray shield attaches to the orthodontists xray machine, and collimates the xrays so the xrays shine on on your childs teeth gums and cheeks and not elsewhere on their face. If you are concerned about this, talk to your orthodontist about using a xray shield. The American Association of Pediatric Dentistry maintains a page on X-ray use and safety . Please check out their site for further information.