Abstract

Oral cancer remains a significant global health concern, yet it is often detected at an advanced stage. The limitations of traditional diagnostic techniques have prompted increased research efforts towards the development of more efficient and early detection methods. Recent advancements in oral cancer diagnosis include the use of salivary biomarkers, optical imaging, liquid biopsy, advanced imaging, and AI algorithms. These non-invasive and painless sampling methods have shown high sensitivity and specificity, particularly in the case of salivary biomarkers. Clinical trials and cooperation are necessary to demonstrate the effectiveness of these technologies and gain approval from relevant authorities and acceptance among clinicians. This review highlights the potential of these new modalities in transforming the approach to oral cancer diagnosis, leading to early detection, accurate diagnosis, and quality treatment for patients, ultimately reducing the global burden of this disease.