My partner’s crooked decaying teeth are a real turn-off, I don’t know how to tell him

DEAR DEIDRE: MY partner’s teeth look terrible. They are crooked, yellow and some appear to be decaying.

He seems completely unaware, but I can’t stand their appearance and I want him to get them fixed.

It’s so bad, it’s started to affect our relationship. I’m 35 and he’s 39.

When we’re kissing or are intimate, I end up pulling away because I can’t stop thinking about his teeth.

I want to encourage him to visit the dentist, but we can’t afford to go private.

I don’t know how to approach him about it.

DEIDRE SAYS: If his teeth are deteriorating then it’s important that he seeks professional help.

Without treatment, this issue will only get worse.

I’m sure you feel awkward and don’t want to insult your partner but, if you approach the subject from a place of compassion, explaining you are worried about his health, he will hopefully be receptive.

You can find out whether you could get help with dental costs on the NHS website, nhs.uk.