My husband’s bad breath is affecting our intimacy

It seems to be getting worse and persists even after he brushes his teeth. How do I talk to him about this?
  
  

‘His bad breath persists all day.’
‘His bad breath persists all day.’ Photograph: Getty Images

My husband has terrible halitosis. Over the past two years, it has got worse. During my pregnancy and breastfeeding days, I thought I was overly sensitive but when my hormones normalised and it seemed the condition was getting worse, I realised it wasn’t me.

I have suggested that he change what he drinks and eats; I’ve suggested we both make dental appointments, but he missed his. I buy mouthwash, and dental floss. The problem is it is affecting intimacy; just being in proximity with him is difficult. It persists all day, even after he brushes his teeth, and worsens with the drinking and smoking. I don’t know how to bring it up with him.

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