Drinking white wine can cause more damage to teeth than red wine or coffee, which is known to lead to staining, according to a new study.

Findings published in the journal Nutrition Research indicated that white wine is more likely to cause dental erosion.

Karen Coates, dental advisor for the British Dental Health Foundation, said: "White wine will have a lower pH, so it's more acidic. The acid will erode the enamel surface.

"You can neutralise the acid in the mouth by having something of an alkali or a neutral pH. Things like cheese, breadsticks, nuts and seeds will help to get the saliva pH back to the even level again."

Teeth whitening procedures have become increasingly popular among Brits wanting to improve the appearance of their smiles.

A survey carried out by Align Technology found that 46 per cent of women feel embarrassed about their teeth.

In related beauty news, research of 3,000 women carried out by OnePoll revealed that the average blonde will spend up to 72 minutes per day on their beauty routine compared to 66 minutes for brunettes.

Find out more about popular, routine beauty treatments at Richard Ward