How do I approach my co-worker who has halitosis/bad breath?
Friday, February 26th, 2010 at
9:52 pm
one of my co-workers had really bad breath and he gets very close when he talks to people. I back away from him a foot whenever he gets next to me – not just because he has bad breath, but he gets too close. This guy isn’t a gum chewer, so I can’t offer him gum, and even when he has a breath mint when offered, it doesn’t really take – an hour later he has bad breath again. Other than backing away constantly, is there a way to inadvertently fix this or make it known to him?
Filed under: Bad Breath Halitosis
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You can tell him anonymously that he has bad breath here: http://therabreath.com/tellafriend.asp
If he has chronic bad breath, you should let him know because that can signify a more serious health issue.
when you offer him the mint and he doesn’tt want to take it. insist that he take its and maybe two. and explain to him why.of coursee this should be done on a one to one.
He has issues going on inside and all the mints in the world won’t help. He either has terrible oral hygiene or it could be he has tonsil stones, that’s where food gets stuck in the ruts of the tonsils and then literally rots, this gives off a foul smelling gas. I think you should just come out and tell him, he probably doesn’t even know it.
It’s a touchy situation. Even when it’s one of your closest family members, it’s hard to tell someone.
Some possible things to say, one-on-one (depending on the severity of the problem):
1 — "Did you eat something unusual today? It seems to be on your breath."
2 — "I hate to bring up the subject, but your breath is bad this morning. If you drink a glass of water, it might help, and then I can offer you a mint."
3 — "I haven’t wanted to say anything up until now, but did you realize that your breath is bad? It’s often hard for people to work closely with you. Sometimes drinking more water can help, or staying away from strong-flavored foods like onion and garlic. Some people have a toothbrush and toothpaste they use at work. If that doesn’t help, your doctor or dentist may have remedies to suggest. As I said, I’m really embarrassed to bring this up, but I’m sure you’d feel a lot better if it were taken care of."
The first and second approaches might possibly be spoken to him, but the third one would probably be better in the form of a private note.
I also have issues with my bad breath . I posted my question on wish123 and got an answer from an expert who solved my problem. Worth a try.