[Cajundaddy]

If you don't get that tooth pulled it will likely kill you so it probably needs to go sooner rather than later. I had a cracked tooth pulled last year and since it was my last molar I opted to go without an implant. I don't really miss it and my gums are far healthier now. You have some time as I understand it, to decide if you can live without a tooth there or want to proceed with an implant. Long term peridontal disease has been found to damage heart valves and may be one cause for the onset of dimentia, so getting the teeth and gums healthy has long term benefits.

Do seek a second opinion if you need further clarification of your options and timeline.