It turns out they are going to do an apiectomy next month instead. I am very happy about that since it saves the crown and in turn, saves me well over $400!!!! Thanks for all you replies and encouragement. I did go and they did let my friend back with me, but are giving me Halcion for the surgery so I guess I won't care that day, LOL!

To the previous poster, as far as I could tell there has been no swelling with this abscess and I don't remember having any with the first either, though the first time it was so bad they sent me for the root canal that same day.
Hope you feel better soon!

Nancy