Teak deck question

We have had the teak stick across the very aft of our cockpit replaced because of damage from us getting into the dinghy etc. It seems the sticks can sometime be removed (carefully) using a router or in this case using a chisel. We have also had various sticks replaced on another vessel. Cut the sika caulking around the sticks first then remove the sticks. Once the sticks are glued down they will probably sit proud of their neighbors and would need to be sanded down once the caulking is replaced. The caulking needs a few days to harden before sanding. The caulking sitting proud is common as the sticks erode over time from sun and salt water and traffic etc. You can cut the caulking down level with the teak and then give a light sand.  The joys of teak decks.