Would an periodontist rather just pull an abscessed tooth rather than send me to an outside endodontist? should i say i have an endodontist available?

Root canal: A periodontist will refer you to an endodontist if you need a root canal. They want you to,have the most appropriate treatment and will make referrals to a specialist if needed.

Why ?: Why would a periodontist want to extract your tooth, when they are trained to save teeth whenever possible? Is your problem endodontic or periodontal in nature? How much bone loss in the tooth? How do you feel about spending $$$$ on a tooth that has a very guarded of not poor prognosis? Get a second opinion from a local periodontist who can examine you if you are skeptical.

Questions & answers: 1. I will say that dentists or periodontists will always prefer to save a tooth rather than pulling if possible. 2. Endodontists are dentists who specialize in saving teeth, and have at least 2-3 years of advanced training in root canals. They are experts at diagnosing and relieving tooth pain/infection, and use advanced equipment to treat patients efficiently and comfortably.

Save teeth: Periodontists and endodontists are trained to save teeth. There are indications for either periodontal or endodontic treatment of a tooth. Occasionally both. There are times when the prognosis, is so poor, that extraction is indicated. If things don't make sense to you, always consider other opinions.

Abcessed tooth: Both periodontists and endodontists save teeth. The treatment depends on whether only the tooth is abcessed (root canal treatment), or whether there is a periodontal infection which can be treated. If there is excessive bone loss which is not treatable, then an extraction would be indicated. These are questions you need to discuss with the dentist or specialist who has seen and examined you.

Need more info: Many times the answer would depend upon your specific tooth. Does the tooth have a strong bony foundation? Is the abscess from a gum infection or a tooth infection.