Background:Oral lesions and pathologies are increasingly affecting significant patient population due to inadequate dietary habits and adaptation of western culture (changing lifestyle conditions). Hence; the present study was undertake for assessing the association between oral health and hygiene practices and oral cancer. Materials & methods:A total of 200 patients with confirmed histopathologic diagnosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma and 200 healthy controls were enrolled. Complete demographic details of all the patients were recorded separately. A questionnaire was made and detailed data in relation to subject’s oral hygiene practices was recorded. Mouth mirror and probe was used for assessing the oral health status. Periodontal index and plaque index were used for evaluating the periodontal status. Results:Presence of gum bleeding and periodontal pathologies weresignificant risk factor for occurrence of OSCC. Seventy six patients of the OSCC group and 134 patients of the control group did mouth wash daily. Thirty four patients of the OSCC group and 147 patients of the control group had complete dental check up every six months. Conclusion:A strong association exists between oral health and oral hygiene practices and occurrence of oral cancer.