Agree...don't use MDO. Use a 3/4" plywood, assuming that is what is there now. Measure it carefully because often what is sold as 3/4" is really something like 23/32". Best to match the exact size of the existing wood. Birch finish is usually the best for a smooth finish. As far as taking it apart, you need to look down on the joint to see which way it will come apart. Hopefully the joint in not too complex and you can gently beat the corners out toward the front. If the joint requires they be separated sideways, it gets a little tougher. A lot of cabinets are just glued but if there are nails or staples, they will pull free and what ever damage that causes can be easily repaired. The joints can generally be cut pretty easily on a table saw. I had an F-14 with a lot of damage on the lower front edge. In my case, I sliced about 2" inches off the bottom of the front with a skill saw and straight edge then put a new piece in just that part. Glued, nailed, sanded and repainted. I kept a piece of the lower cabinet to remind me of what it looked like before I restored it. If the wood work is not something you are comfortable with, if you can get the original front removed, I expect you could find a cabinet shop that could make you one very easily.

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