Advances in the diagnosis and treatment of oral cancer.

Cancer of the oral cavity is fortunately rare in the Western world. However, rates are rising and are comparatively high in lower socioeconomic groups and in many metropolitan areas. Whenever possible, cancer of the oral cavity should be distinguished from "head and neck" cancers, because "site" is so important in the behavior of the disease. This review discusses the advantages and disadvantages of various methods of diagnosis, therapy, reconstruction, social rehabilitation, and pain control of oral cancer and of head and neck cancer.