Systems and methods selectively stabilize tissue in the oral cavity. The systems and methods implant a first implant element in a bone region within an oral cavity and implant a second implant element in a tongue region within the oral cavity. The systems and methods resist posterior movement of the tongue within the oral cavity by coupling the first implant element to the second implant element within the oral cavity. By coupling, the systems and methods apply force, e.g., tension, between the first and second implant elements.