Oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs)—including leukoplakia, erythroplakia, oral lichen planus, oral submucous fibrosis, and actinic cheilitis—represent the primary pathway leading to oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). While early identification and consistent monitoring can significantly reduce malignant transformation, international practices surrounding diagnosis, risk assessment, and management differ substantially. These inconsistencies create clinical uncertainty, delay referrals, and limit the global ability to compare outcomes or implement uniform preventive strategies. To systematically map global diagnostic criteria, evaluation strategies, and management pathways for OPMDs, and to identify gaps that hinder the development of standardized, evidence-based clinical protocols. Using PRISMA-ScR guidelines, we searched PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library for literature published from 2000–2025. Eligible evidence included clinical practice guidelines, cohort studies, cross-sectional analyses, histopathologic criteria papers, consensus statements, and systematic reviews. Data were charted into domains involving diagnostic methods (clinical features, histology, adjunctive tests), risk-stratification approaches, surveillance intervals, and medical or surgical management. Considerable heterogeneity was found in defining OPMDs—particularly leukoplakia and oral lichen planus, where reliance on histologic dysplasia versus clinical appearance varied widely. Evidence for adjunctive diagnostic tools—such as autofluorescence, brush cytology, and salivary biomarkers—remained inconsistent, limiting routine adoption. Surveillance intervals ranged from 3–12 months, depending on dysplasia severity and clinician preference. Although excision and laser ablation are common treatments, evidence supporting their role in preventing malignant transformation remains inconclusive. Limited data existed for standardized protocols in resource-limited regions. There is a critical need for globally harmonized diagnostic criteria, validated risk-prediction tools, and standardized monitoring pathways for OPMDs. Strengthening these areas is essential for improving early detection and reducing OSCC burden worldwide

Edmond Kubi Appiah, BDS, MPH, is a clinician-researcher with interdisciplinary training in dentistry, public health, and clinical research. He holds a Bachelor of Dental Surgery and a Master of Public Health from Drexel University. Edmond’s research focuses on oral-systemic health, salivary diagnostics, health disparities, and the integration of preventive dentistry into population-level care models. Edmond has gained hands-on clinical exposure through externships and shadowing experiences in U.S. dental settings, complementing his international clinical background. He is passionate about advancing minimally invasive, preventive, and equitable dental care. His long-term goal is to pursue advanced standing dental education and contribute to evidence-based practice, research innovation, and community-centered oral health interventions