Oral cancer is a serious health concern requiring target-specific treatment strategies due to its high rates of morbidity and mortality. Early detection of cancer cells considerably improves prognosis and treatment outcomes. Recently, nanomaterials have opened a world of intriguing new possibilities for cancer diagnosis and therapy by providing creative ways to enhance patients' quality of life. Furthermore, modified nanoparticles use specially designed moieties to target cancer cells more precisely. Drug delivery methods could reduce side effects and significantly improve oral cancer treatment efficacy. In addition, polymer-based drug delivery methods are designed to release drugs gradually and in a controlled way. In addition, the combination therapy with a drug delivery system leads to a synergetic effect are also discussed. © 2024 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.