Meet the Team
Bear Creek Dentistry & Orthodontics
Committed to Exceptional Care and Community Connection
When you choose Bear Creek Dentistry & Orthodontics, you're choosing a team that values exceptional care and active community involvement. Led by Dr. Joseph Varga and Dr. Bryan Le, our dedicated staff is committed to serving the Houston area with the highest standards of dental care. We believe every patient deserves a personalized approach, and we take pride in offering treatments that reflect this philosophy. Our compassionate team ensures that each visit is a comfortable experience, making dental health a priority for every member of your family.
At Bear Creek, we build lasting relationships with our patients, creating a supportive environment where your oral health is always our top priority. Our commitment to excellence shines through in every treatment we provide—whether it’s a routine cleaning or a complex orthodontic procedure. By choosing us, you’re not just selecting a dental provider; you’re gaining a trusted partner in your journey toward optimal dental health, supported by a team that genuinely cares about your well-being. Reach out to us today to get started!
About Our Expert Dental Team
At Bear Creek Dentistry & Orthodontics, we’re more than just your local dental office—we’re your neighbors, dedicated to brightening Houston’s smiles, one patient at a time. Our commitment to the community shines through in every interaction, as we deliver not only expert dental care but also meaningful, personal connections with each individual we serve. From the youngest to the oldest members of your family, we tailor our services to meet your unique needs with compassion and professionalism. Click here to learn more about our team, and feel free to contact us with any questions!
Meet Our Team of Dental Experts
At Bear Creek Dentistry & Orthodontics in Houston, TX, we understand the importance of finding a dental team that makes you feel comfortable and cared for. Our experienced and friendly staff is here to provide top-tier dental care for you and your family. Ready to experience exceptional dental care? Contact us today to schedule your appointment.
“We believe your health should never be compromised by financial concerns—only transparency and no surprises.”

Dr. Bryan Le
Dentist

Dr. Joseph Z. Varga
Dentist

Dr. Stevin Ho
Dentist

Dr. Barry Lin
Dentist

Kerstin Gee-Villasen
Office Manager

Renne Torres
Administrative

Cristal Aldana-Lopez
Hygienist

Indira Acosta
Lead Dental Assistant

Christina Alvarez
Dental Assistant

Roberto Lopez
Lead Dental Assistant

Pamela Dubon Menchaca
Dental Assistant
What happens at a dental cleaning?
Dental cleanings are essential for protecting both your dental health and overall well-being. During your cleaning, the hygienist will carefully remove plaque buildup that can cause gum disease or tooth decay. Your examination includes screening for these issues to detect them early, allowing for prompt and less invasive treatment. These appointments also provide an excellent opportunity to discuss your concerns and home care routine with your hygienist. They may recommend products like electric toothbrushes or antibacterial mouth rinses to enhance your at-home oral care regimen. If you have concerns about your teeth or wish to improve your smile, your hygienist can provide information about beneficial dental procedures. When you're ready for your next cleaning, please contact Bear Creek Dentistry & Orthodontics to schedule an appointment.Who is a good candidate for dentures?
Dentures are typically recommended for individuals missing one or multiple teeth. Your dentist may suggest complete or partial dentures depending on your specific restoration needs. Partial dentures are ideal for patients who still have some natural teeth remaining, as they help prevent existing teeth from shifting into the gaps in your smile. Complete dentures are appropriate when all teeth are missing in either the upper or lower jaw and require replacement with dental prosthetics. At Bear Creek Dentistry & Orthodontics, we create full dentures when no natural teeth remain.How can dentures benefit me?
Dentures enhance biting, eating, and speech capabilities while providing crucial support for facial muscles and contours. This support prevents the facial sagging or premature aging that often occurs when teeth are missing. Our custom-fabricated dentures blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, creating a subtle change that few people will notice. They play an essential role in completing your smile and maintaining facial structure. Even with proper maintenance, dentures typically need replacement every five to eight years due to normal wear. If your dentures begin feeling loose, please consult our dental professionals rather than attempting self-repairs. For patients missing one or more teeth who wish to restore bite functionality and enhance appearance, dentures offer an effective solution. Contact Bear Creek Dentistry & Orthodontics to discuss your tooth replacement options and determine the most appropriate procedure for your situation.Can you fix my teeth?
If you experience discomfort while eating, a comprehensive oral examination at Bear Creek Dentistry & Orthodontics may be beneficial. Our dentists regularly help patients improve their oral health and comfort. We utilize advanced diagnostic dentistry techniques to identify oral conditions early when treatment is typically simpler. During your new patient examination, we will identify any dental issues and present all available treatment options during a consultation. We prioritize patient education rather than pressure, enabling you to make informed decisions about your dental care. For cosmetic concerns, we offer numerous solutions to enhance your smile's appearance. We understand that a beautiful smile is particularly important for professionals seeking to make positive impressions or individuals with active social lives. A confident smile is valuable in any situation. Our cosmetic options include porcelain veneers, dental whitening, and comprehensive smile makeovers to help you achieve a beautiful smile that enhances your self-confidence.What is the teeth whitening process?
Teeth whitening represents one of the most efficient and cost-effective methods to enhance your appearance. Professional teeth whitening is popular because it allows you to select your desired whiteness level using safe, high-quality materials, ensuring satisfying results. New patients who are cavity-free receive a complimentary take-home whitening system after their comprehensive exam, professional cleaning, or diagnostic x-rays. Professional whitening provides benefits including precision-made bleaching trays, professional-grade gel, and consistent whitening results. The process begins with your dentist examining your teeth and determining if you're suitable for whitening or if another treatment would be more effective for your particular stains. Your dentist will then take impressions of your mouth to create customized bleaching trays. At your follow-up appointment, you'll receive instructions on using your trays and bleaching gel, including frequency and duration recommendations. Typically, patients wear the trays for approximately one hour daily until achieving their desired whiteness. The trays and additional gel can be used for touch-ups every few months or annually as needed. For more information about teeth whitening at Bear Creek Dentistry & Orthodontics, please contact our dental clinic.I grind my teeth. Can you help?
Teeth whitening provides one of the quickest and most economical methods to enhance your appearance. The popularity of professional teeth whitening stems from the ability to select your preferred whiteness level using safe, premium materials that guarantee satisfactory results. New cavity-free patients receive a complimentary take-home whitening system following their comprehensive exam, cleaning, or x-rays. Professional whitening offers benefits including custom-fitted bleaching trays, professional-grade gel, and uniform whitening results. The process begins with a dental examination to determine your suitability for whitening and whether your specific stains can be addressed with an at-home kit or require alternative treatments. Your dentist will take mouth impressions to create your personalized bleaching trays. During your subsequent visit, you'll receive detailed instructions for using your trays and gel, including recommended frequency and duration. Most patients wear their trays for approximately one hour daily until reaching their desired whiteness level. The trays and additional gel can be used for periodic touch-ups every few months or annually as needed. For additional information about our teeth whitening services at Bear Creek Dentistry & Orthodontics, please contact our clinic.Do you offer clear braces?
We recognize that traditional brackets and wires aren't suitable for every lifestyle, which is why we provide Invisalign as a discreet orthodontic alternative. Invisalign utilizes clear plastic trays that are periodically changed to gradually align your teeth. Your treatment is planned and monitored in our office to ensure proper progress. The primary difference from traditional braces is that you'll wear removable aligner trays instead of fixed brackets and wires. The removable nature of these trays allows you to enjoy your favorite foods without restrictions and maintain proper oral hygiene more easily. However, for optimal results, the trays should be worn at least 22 hours daily. Invisalign effectively addresses many orthodontic conditions and is particularly suitable for older teenagers and adults. Our dentists can evaluate whether Invisalign is appropriate for your specific needs. Some patients may also benefit from our Six Month Smiles option, which offers expedited treatment. Please contact us to schedule a consultation about achieving a more beautiful smile.I have crooked teeth. Can you help?
A misaligned bite can create numerous oral health issues. When teeth don't properly align, your bite may feel uncomfortable, making chewing painful or causing you to avoid certain foods. Crooked teeth can also affect your self-confidence, potentially leading you to hide your smile or feel self-conscious. At Bear Creek Dentistry & Orthodontics, we provide several orthodontic solutions to accommodate various lifestyles. Traditional orthodontics employs brackets and wires to gradually reposition your teeth, offering one of the most reliable methods for achieving excellent functional and aesthetic results. Six Month Smiles provides an accelerated approach for addressing cosmetic alignment concerns, focusing only on visible teeth to reduce treatment time and often cost. Invisalign clear braces use transparent plastic aligners that apply consistent pressure to move teeth into proper alignment, offering treatment duration similar to traditional braces but with greater convenience and discretion. If you're interested in exploring teeth straightening options, please contact our Houston dental clinic to determine which solution best suits your needs.Do you treat kids?
Every child possesses a naturally beautiful smile that parents treasure. At Bear Creek Dentistry & Orthodontics, we're committed to helping children maintain their beautiful smiles through effective pediatric dental care. We understand the challenges busy families face, particularly households where working parents must coordinate multiple appointments. Our goal is to simplify access to quality dental care for your entire family. As parents ourselves, we treat your children with the same care and consideration we would want for our own. Our dentists excel at creating a comfortable environment for children, making each dental appointment both enjoyable and educational. We respect your child's comfort level and never force treatment, instead working at their pace to prevent overwhelming experiences. Specialized pediatric dentistry isn't necessary for excellent children's dental care. Our experienced team skillfully works with children of all ages, and we look forward to providing dental services for your entire family.What causes periodontal disease?
Gum disease affects over half of Americans aged 30 and older and can lead to serious consequences including tooth loss if left untreated. At Bear Creek Dentistry & Orthodontics, we emphasize patient education to help you recognize infection signs and make informed health decisions. Plaque, a sticky film containing food particles and harmful bacteria, is the primary cause of gum disease. Daily brushing and flossing are recommended specifically to prevent plaque formation, which occurs continuously. Untreated plaque damages gums and leads to inflammation. The bacteria in plaque produce acids that irritate gum tissue, often resulting in swelling, bleeding, redness, and other inflammatory indicators. Over time, gums may separate from teeth, creating pockets where bacteria can accumulate. When plaque hardens, it becomes calculus or tartar, which can generally be prevented through consistent oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits. Gingivitis, the initial stage of periodontal disease, can typically be reversed with proper oral care. Your dentist may recommend specialized mouthwash to eliminate bacteria. If allowed to progress, gingivitis develops into periodontitis. Dental bleeding or pain typically indicates underlying issues and should not be considered normal. Fortunately, many oral health problems respond well to early intervention. Please contact us to schedule your dental cleaning and examination so we can monitor your oral health effectively.How are dental fillings done?
Dental fillings are a way to save a tooth that has a cavity. At Bear Creek Dentistry & Orthodontics, we understand that cavities can be painful, which is why we like to treat them as soon as possible. A cavity is a small hole or fracture that allows bacteria to enter your tooth. Without treatment, a cavity can become abscessed or reach the roots and pulp of your tooth and become infected, which requires a root canal. Cavities, often caused by eating and drinking foods and beverages with excessive sugar, are common in children but can also happen in adulthood. Improper or infrequent brushing and flossing can also cause cavities. Dental fillings start with a thorough assessment of the cavity, which usually includes an X-ray. Following that, your dentist will numb the area surrounding the tooth. When the area is thoroughly numb, your dentist will use a small drill, laser, or other dental instruments to create clean margins around the cavity, removing any decay or bacteria. When the tooth is thoroughly prepared and the margins are clean, it’s time for your filling. Dental filling materials include: Resins Gold Porcelain Silver amalgam Today, most filling materials match the hue of your surrounding teeth and are virtually invisible. If you think you may have a cavity, contact Bear Creek Dentistry & Orthodontics today. Our staff looks forward to serving all of your dental needs.How can I prevent cavities?
Dental decay that requires a filling is one of the most preventable conditions we face. With the implementation of fluoride in drinking water, we have been able to seriously reduce dental decay in America. Fluoridated water is not enough to keep your teeth healthy, though. It requires regular home care, including brushing your teeth twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing at least once daily. These steps alone can significantly reduce the instances of decay that you experience. It is also essential that you have regular dental exams. A skilled hygienist, like the ones that we have at Bear Creek Dentistry & Orthodontics, will remove the accumulated tartar, plaque, and bacteria from the places you cannot reach with your toothbrush or dental floss. Having a healthy diet supports great overall health, including your teeth and gums. Avoiding sugary and starchy snacks, especially close to bedtime, can help you avoid dental decay. Another consideration is what you drink. Soda, energy drinks, and fruit juice all contain decay-causing acids that eat away at the enamel of your teeth. For patients who have reoccurring decay, we offer dental sealants and fluoride treatments to help protect your smile. Please ask us more if you would like additional assistance protecting your teeth from decay.What should I know about root canals?
This is a very common question and an informative place to start learning about root canals. Many different things can cause the need for root canals; the most common ones are trauma, cracks, large cavities, and infections. Dental professionals use the term “root canal” as it refers to narrow passageways that form between your pulp chamber to your tooth roots. Often, root canals are needed to save an infected tooth, and emergency root canals treat the pain and discomfort that often herald their coming. Our teeth are simultaneously hard and fragile. They are tough enough to crack open shells and tear through meat. But without good oral hygiene and proper care, they are susceptible to inflammation and infection. If your pulp chamber (the hollow part of your tooth) becomes infected, your dentist will need to remove the infected pulp to save the tooth and prevent the infection from spreading. Your other alternative to stopping the infection from spreading, and to end the pain, is to have the entire tooth extracted. At Bear Creek Dentistry & Orthodontics, we always try to save the tooth if it is a possibility. Root canal treatments are a routine procedure at our Houston dental office, and the success rate is very high. Saving your tooth allows you to avoid problems that can occur after a tooth is extracted, such as teeth shifting position, difficulty biting down, and loss of jawbone. The myth of a painful root canal is just that—a myth. Root canals actually relieve the pain and pressure that brings patients in for emergency root canals. The actual procedure is no more painful than getting a filling. At Bear Creek Dentistry & Orthodontics, we understand how frightening the thought of a root canal can be, but we are here to make the process gentle and comfortable. If you are suffering from tooth pain, we may be able to save your tooth.

