Unlike many other malignancies, cancers of the mouth and surrounding tissues continue to cause considerable mortality and morbidity in this country. Therefore, early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of patients with oral cancer must be a high priority for all health care providers. This review is aimed at heightening the awareness of clinicians to the early signs and symptoms of oral cancer. Recognition of early lesions is crucial for improved long-term patient survival. Factors such as advanced age, tobacco and/or alcohol use, chronic sun exposure, and a previous diagnosis of cancer can alert clinicians to patients who may be at risk for developing oral cancer. Because most oral malignancies are asymptomatic and may mimic benign conditions, any suspicious lesion should be carefully examined and, if appropriate, referred immediately for histological examination. Measures such as annual oral cancer screening examinations and patient education that stress early signs and symptoms of oral cancer can also help to reduce the risk in high-risk individuals.