What is the term used for the area of a tooth that is closest to the crown?

The term that describes the area of a tooth closest to the crown is "coronal." This is derived from the word "corona," which refers to a crown or outermost part. In dental terminology, the coronal aspect of a tooth is the part that includes the enamel-covered portion, which is the visible part above the gum line. This area is crucial in terms of aesthetics and function, as it is what typically comes into contact with food during chewing and is the primary area impacted by dental caries or other dental issues.

In contrast, the other terms refer to different aspects of tooth anatomy. "Apical" pertains to the tip of the tooth root, which is the opposite end of the crown. "Mesial" describes the surface of a tooth that is closest to the midline of the dental arch, while "dental" is a general term related to teeth but does not specify a location on the tooth itself. Thus, the term “coronal” is specifically appropriate for the area of the tooth nearest the crown.