Squamous cell carcinoma* is the most common
malignant neoplasm of the oral cavity. Tobacco
and alcohol use have been identified as risk
factors, but squamous cell carcinoma can occur in patients with no known risk factors. Squamous
cell carcinoma can occur anywhere on the oral
mucosa, but is most common on the ventral and
lateral surfaces of the tongue, floor of the mouth,
soft palate, tonsillar pillar area, and retromolar
trigone areas.