All the staff are amazing! They try to make you as comfortable and pain-free as possible but you are at the dentist so if you don't take care of your teeth there will be some pain. In reference to cost: they are the most reasonable I've found in the area but I think dentist costs have gone up everywhere. They are good at billing and working with you and your insurance.
About Hygienist: She is the best!!! Only one I've found that will clean my teeth with braces fully in tact.