Journal of AdvancedMedical and Dental Sciences Research

The word cancer means crab, denoting how carcinoma extends its claws like a crab into the adjacent tissues. Oral cancer is the 12th most common cancer in women and the 6th in men. Many oral squamous cell carcinomas develop from potentially malignant disorders (PMDs). Lack of public awareness about the signs, symptoms and risk factors, along with the absence of knowledge for early detection by general dental practitioners and are believed to be responsible for this diagnostic delay and treatment initiation. This article aims to update and improve the knowledge of general dental practitioners and healthcare providers in order to prevent delay in diagnosis which could help in reducing mortality from cancer.