To provide a sprocket that reduces the influence of tension fluctuations concurrent with load torque changes to suppress noise and vibration and that allows for a weight reduction while retaining high strength as well as enables high productivity, and a drive mechanism that uses this sprocket. Sprocket teeth are configured by providing a cushioning layer on tooth faces of tooth portions of a sprocket base body made of a high-rigidity material. The sprocket teeth include the cushioning layer that varies in thickness.