Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a newly discovered class of covalently closed circular endogenous noncoding RNAs that differ from miRNAs and lncRNAs. Many reports have recently been published on the involvement of circRNAs in the mechanism of disease development, providing a new theoretical basis for tumor prevention, diagnosis, and precise treatment. This article reviews the biological characteristics and mechanisms of circRNAs and their role in the development of several common oral squamous cell carcinomas.