The Possible Link Between Oral Microflorae and Oral Cancer Development: A Literature Review

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) research is still inconclusive due to methodological differences and constraints. The study aimed to review the function of oral microflora in the progression of oral cancer and to highlight the need for good oral hygiene practices for various reasons beyond only avoiding dental problems such as cavities and gum disease. Oral carcinoma is a rapidly increasing cancer with a high mortality rate, particularly in adolescents and young adults. Despite the progress of chemotherapy and radiation therapy, the percentage of people who will be alive is less than 50% after 5 years. Oral cancer has a terrible prognosis and can spread if it is not detected early; thus, researchers should focus on developing biomarkers that might detect the disease at an earlier stage. SCC has a complex set of causes. Factors and conditions predisposing to oral cancer include tobacco, alcohol, infections (e.g., candidiasis), viruses (human immunodeficiency virus, herpes simplex virus, and human papillomavirus), and systemic conditions (iron deficiency anemia, malnutrition, and vitamin A deficiency). Changes in the structure of oral bacteria are caused by two primary risk factors for oral cancer, including smoking and alcohol consumption. These microorganisms produce carcinogenic products such as acetaldehyde, which are associated with oral cancer. The oral cavity is host to a wide variety of microflora, including fungi, bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms, as one of the most abundant microbial habitats in the human body. Recent epidemiological research has linked specific periodontitis microorganisms to an increased risk of developing oral premalignant and neoplastic lesions. Clinicians have long noted a correlation among dental state, poor oral hygiene, and oral cancer, which may be independent of tobacco and alcohol use. Based on the results, more research is required to determine the precise results and the nature of the correlation between oral microbiota and oral cancer, considering the findings of the previous studies.