The roles of epithelium in the development, structure and function of the tissues of tooth support are reviewed. Epithelium is involved in initiating odontogenesis which includes the tissues of tooth support and this role is discussed. Particular attention is paid to Hertwig's epithelial root sheath and its participation in the formation of the hyaline layer on the root surface as well as its possible role in initiating the differentiation of cementoblasts. The possible functions of the epithelial cell rests are reviewed and it is concluded that as yet no function can be ascribed to them. Evidence for an increasing role for dental epithelium in tooth eruption is presented and the role of dental epithelium in establishing the dentogingival junction is discussed, with the conclusion drawn that this role is temporary.