Oral cancer, characterized by malignant lesions in the oral cavity, poses significant health challenges globally. Inflammation has been increasingly recognized as a crucial factor in the pathogenesis and progression of oral cancer. This review synthesizes current knowledge on inflammatory pathways involved in oral cancer, emphasizing their role in tumor initiation, promotion, and progression. Key inflammatory mediators, including cytokines, chemokines, and prostaglandins, are examined for their contributions to the tumor microenvironment and their interactions with cancer cells. We explore the mechanisms by which chronic inflammation leads to genetic and epigenetic alterations, facilitating the transformation of normal epithelial cells into malignant ones. Additionally, the review discusses the impact of inflammatory signaling pathways, such as NF-κB, COX-2, and IL-6, on oral cancer progression and their potential as therapeutic targets. Insights into these inflammatory mechanisms offer valuable perspectives for developing novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to improve outcomes in oral cancer management