DEAR DEIDRE: PEOPLE have told me my breath stinks, even though I clean my teeth twice a day. It’s so embarrassed that now I don’t want to get too close to anyone. I’m a single guy of 32 and ...

But there's one small, big detail: his breath is unbearable to you. And you, who have always tried to choose your words carefully to avoid hurting him, find yourself at a crossroads.

Q: No matter what I do, my breath smells. I floss and brush twice a day, use a tongue scraper and mouthwash, but no matter what, my breath still stinks.

Leaving an anonymous note is a good tactic, especially, if you are not close to the person. You can leave a note in their locker, desk, book or anywhere where they are sure to see it. But be careful ...

I’ve always been the quiet, shy type, never mentioning things that bother me (my kids’ father abused me for several years), and I feel uncomfortable speaking up. But Abby, his bad breath ...