There are more than 45,000 new cancer cases involving the head and neck diagnosed each year within the United States. Squamous cell carcinoma accounts for the majority of cases, often occurring within the oral cavity and oropharynx. This article reviews current literature and various controversial topics involving the diagnosis and treatment strategies for patients with oral cavity/oropharyngeal cancers. Although not considered cancer within the oral cavity, maxillary sinus squamous cell carcinoma is discussed.