hyoid suspension is a surgical procedure that repositions and stabilizes the hyoid bone in the neck. It is most commonly discussed in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and related airway obstruction. The goal is to help keep the lower throat (hypopharyngeal) airway more open during sleep. Dentistry may intersect with it through sleep screening, oral appliance therapy, and multidisciplinary airway care.
genioglossus advancement is a jaw-based surgical procedure that moves part of the tongue’s main anchoring muscle forward. It is most commonly used in sleep medicine and oral and maxillofacial surgery to address tongue-base airway narrowing. The goal is to help keep the tongue from falling backward during sleep. It is often considered as part of a broader, “multi-level” treatment plan for obstructive sleep apnea.
UPPP stands for uvulopalatopharyngoplasty. It is a surgical procedure that reshapes tissues at the back of the throat, often involving the soft palate and uvula. It is most commonly used in the evaluation and treatment pathway for obstructive sleep apnea and problematic snoring. It is typically performed by an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) surgeon rather than a dentist.
uvulopalatopharyngoplasty is a surgical procedure that reshapes tissues at the back of the throat. It commonly involves the uvula (the small tissue that hangs down), parts of the soft palate, and nearby throat tissue. It is most often discussed in the context of snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), where airflow is blocked during sleep. Care is typically coordinated by sleep-medicine teams and surgeons; dentists may be involved in screening and oral-appliance care.
MMA most commonly refers to **methyl methacrylate**, a liquid resin ingredient used in dentistry. It is a **monomer** (a small molecule) that can join into a solid plastic called **PMMA** (polymethyl methacrylate). Dental teams use MMA-containing materials in **dentures, temporary restorations, repairs, relines, and some adhesive resin systems**. The exact formulation and clinical use vary by **material and manufacturer**.
maxillomandibular advancement is a type of jaw surgery that moves the upper jaw (maxilla) and lower jaw (mandible) forward. It is most commonly used in sleep medicine and orthognathic (jaw-correcting) care. By advancing both jaws, it can increase the space behind the tongue and soft palate. It can also change facial balance and the way the teeth meet (occlusion).
OSA surgery is a group of surgical procedures used to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). OSA is a condition where the upper airway repeatedly narrows or collapses during sleep. OSA surgery aims to improve airflow by changing or stabilizing tissues in the nose, throat, tongue region, or jaws. It is commonly considered when non-surgical therapies are not effective, not tolerated, or when anatomy strongly contributes to obstruction.
sleep apnea surgery refers to surgical procedures used to reduce upper-airway blockage during sleep. It is most often discussed in the context of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), where breathing repeatedly narrows or stops due to airway collapse. These surgeries are commonly performed by ENT (ear, nose, and throat) surgeons and oral and maxillofacial surgeons, often within a multidisciplinary sleep-medicine team. In dental care, it is most relevant when dentists screen for sleep-disordered breathing, coordinate referrals, or help manage oral-device alternatives.
An alveolar bone graft is a procedure that adds bone (or a bone substitute) to the tooth-bearing part of the jaw called the alveolar ridge. It is commonly used to rebuild bone volume after tooth loss, trauma, infection, or congenital conditions. The goal is to create a more stable foundation for teeth, dental implants, and healthy gum tissue. It can be performed in the upper jaw (maxilla) or lower jaw (mandible), depending on the clinical need.
palatoplasty is a surgical procedure to repair the palate (the roof of the mouth). It is most commonly used to close a cleft palate or correct related palatal defects. The goal is to separate the mouth from the nose and support normal speech and feeding. It is typically performed within a multidisciplinary cleft or craniofacial care team.