Which type of tumors can be benign or malignant in the oral cavity?

Oral tumors are unique in that they can manifest in both benign and malignant forms within the oral cavity. Tumors are abnormal growths of tissue, and depending on their cellular characteristics and behavior, they can either be non-cancerous (benign) or cancerous (malignant).

Benign tumors generally do not spread to other parts of the body and may include growths such as fibromas or lipomas. On the other hand, malignant tumors in the oral cavity, such as squamous cell carcinomas, have the potential to invade surrounding tissues and metastasize, posing a greater health risk.

The term "oral tumors" encompasses a wide variety of growths characterized by differences in histology and behavior, which is why they can be categorized as either benign or malignant.

In contrast, cysts refer specifically to fluid-filled sacs that can arise in the oral cavity and may be benign in nature. Abscesses are localized collections of pus that are typically caused by infection and are not classified as tumors. Lesions are a broader category that can refer to any abnormal tissue change, including tumors, but do not specifically indicate malignancy or type. Thus, the specificity of oral tumors being capable of being either benign or malignant