It is estimated that more than one million new oral cancer cases are being detected annually in the Indian subcontinent, of which 90% are oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCC). 60–70% of the Indian patients presented for treatment only in the advanced stage of oral cancer leading to the high mortality rate. Lack of public awareness about the signs, symptoms and risk factors, along with the absence of knowledge for early detection by health–care providers are believed to be responsible for this diagnostic delay and treatment initiation. Biopsy is essential to confirm the provisional clinical diagnosis, and timely referral to a specialist is indicated. Lack of awareness about the signs and symptoms of oral Potentially malignant disorders(PMDs) in the general population and even healthcare providers is believed to be responsible for the diagnostic delay of these entities. The aim of this article is to update and improve the knowledge of healthcare providers about oral PMDs.