An oral device for improving airway patency is provided which do not require that a clear region be created below the palate in the oral cavity. The device comprises an anchor structure and a means for applying a negative pressure directly to at least one region lateral to a posterior region of the tongue. Various plenum structures which align a vacuum source on either or both sides of the tongue are suitable. Methods comprise applying a negative pressure to at least one region lateral to a posterior portion of the tongue in the oral cavity to open the airway behind the soft palate.
