DEAR ABBY: I have been seeing "Rodney" for four months. He is very nice, and we get along well. My problem is I am not totally attracted to him because of some dental issues.
Shortly after we started dating he told me he chews tobacco, which has contributed to his yellowing teeth. Because of this I find it hard to kiss him. Rodney has noticed it, but I told him I am not big on kissing -- which is really not the case.
How should I approach the subject with Rodney? This issue keeps me from completely falling for him. Please offer me some advice if you can. -- TURNED OFF IN SOUTH CAROLINA
DEAR TURNED OFF: If you truly care about Rodney, confront the subject directly, because if he doesn't do something about his addiction to tobacco, your romance won't last. Tell him you weren't honest about how you feel about kissing and that his breath and yellow teeth have kept you from fully enjoying it.
Most people don't realize how dangerous and addictive chewing tobacco is. Studies show that the amount of nicotine in the bloodstream of "chewers" is twice as great as for smokers. Chewing tobacco is a cause for cancer of the mouth, lip, tongue, cheek and throat, heart disease, tooth decay and receding gums, as well as halitosis (bad breath). Nicotine gum can help Rodney quit and possibly save his life. So speak up -- for his sake. And yours.