A new study has revealed that a regular glass of wine, both red and white can help put off tooth decay, gum disease and heal sore throats.

According to Italian scientists, who used bottles of supermarket Valpolicella and Pinot Nero wine, the drink has ingredients that can kill bacteria.

"However, the drink's antibacterial qualities, although well- known by the ancient Romans, have been little investigated," the Daily Mail quoted Professor Gabriella Gazzani, as saying.

"Overall, our findings seem to indicate that wine can act as an effective anti-microbial agent against streptococci bacteria and upper respiratory tract infections," she said.

The professor added that it is still necessary to maintain good oral health.

"We should still drink wine because it tastes good, goes well with food and is a pleasure to share with company. And we should still brush and floss our teeth the accepted way," she added.

The study is published in the American Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.