An intraoral electromuscular stimulation device and method to treat a
breathing disorder. The stimulation device includes a first electrode, a
first support member that maintains the first electrode in a sublingual
location posterior to a frenulum and proximate to one of a first molar, a
second molar and a third molar of a patient. A second electrode is
maintained in a sublingual position posterior relative to the first
electrode by a second support member. A further embodiment of the
stimulation device includes a sensor that detects a respiratory parameter
of a patient and outputs a signal indicative thereof. A control unit
receives the signal from the sensor, distinguishes between inspiration
and expiration, and initiates an electrical stimulation at a stimulation
time prior to onset of inspiration and continues stimulation through a
portion of inspiration at a level sufficient to induce muscle contraction
without pain.