In recent years, a large number of studies have shown that the abnormal expression of long non‑coding (lnc)RNAs can lead to a variety of different diseases, including inflammatory disorders, cardiovascular disease, nervous system diseases, and cancers. Recent research has demonstrated the biological characteristics of lncRNAs and the important functions of lncRNAs in oral inflammation, precancerous lesions and cancers. The present review aims to explore and discuss the potential roles of candidate lncRNAs in oral diseases by summarizing multiple lncRNA profiles in diseased and healthy oral tissues to determine the altered lncRNA signatures. In addition, to highlight the exact regulatory mechanism of lncRNAs in oral inflammatory disorders, potentially premalignant oral epithelial lesions and oral squamous cell carcinoma. The detection of lncRNAs in oral samples has the potential to be used as a diagnostic and an early detection tool for oral diseases. Furthermore, lncRNAs are promising future therapeutic targets in oral diseases, and research in this field may expand in the future.