Submitted by throwRA32452 t3_12799dx in relationship_advice

TL;DR: husband has really bad breath, how do I nicely tell him to go see the dentist?

My husband hates the dentist and so he just doesn’t go consistently. He hasn’t been in a year. I’m not going to nag him and act like his mom, so I never say anything aside from some light teasing when it comes up which is in line with our relationship style.

However recently I’ve noticed some really bad breath, not the normal morning breath. I suspect he has some sort of gingevitis/infection/whatever going on, but he doesn’t know and will probably put off going until a dental emergency unless I mention it.

If I bring it up and tell him to go, I know he will and it won’t be a big deal, but I don’t want to hurt his feelings. Help me word this nicely so he will go and I don’t embarrass him additionally! Would a text be easier to hear than an in person conversation? Thanks!

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StephMess18 t1_jed77ic wrote

“Babe, your breath stinks in a way that’s very concerning to me. I think it’s something a dentist needs to check out.”

When it comes to health, don’t worry about hurt feelings. It’s more important that you get to the point so he knows how serious it is.

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therealcosmicnebula t1_jed79b1 wrote

Tell him directly and concisely.

"I need to tell you something. Your breath smells bad. I don't know what it is. But you need to see the dentist."

Don't do all the eggshell overly verbose, roundabout way.

It's more insulting when you do that.

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QuitaQuites t1_jed96hu wrote

So come from a place of concern, not that his breath is bad, but that it may be a sign of infection and an infection in the mouth can actually be life threatening.

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dwells2301 t1_jedlod0 wrote

Tell him you have noticed a change and you are concerned. Untreated dental problems can lead to serious health issues.

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