DefinitionOral cancer is cancer of the mouth.Alternative NamesCancer - mouth; Mouth cancer; Head and neck cancer; Squamous cell cancer - mouthCauses, incidence, and risk factorsOral cancer most commonly involves the tissue of the lips or the tongue. It may also occur on the:Cheek liningFloor of the mouthGums (gingiva)Roof of the mouth (palate)Most oral cancers look very similar under the microscope and are called squamous cell carcinomas. These are cancerous and tend to spread quickly.Smoking and other tobacco use are linked to 70 - 80% of oral cancer cases. Heavy alcohol use is also associated with an increased risk for oral cancer.Other factors that may increase the risk for oral cancer include:Chronic irritation (such as from rough teeth, dentures, or fillings)Human papilloma virus infe