Since I almost always host, I will offer a bottled water or cocktail, visit for a few minutes just to get comfortable. I will usually ask what part of the city they live in as I can usually talk about places to eat or something in that area, then I suggest we head to the bedroom. Always works!
I have a question though, if, during this small-talk, you notice their breath is offensive, what do you do? I keep pre-pasted, disposable toothbrushes in a basket by the sink and have pointed them out but the few guys who needed them never took the hint.