Sleep apnea has been established as a contributing cause in the death of Reggie White, a fearsome defensive end for the Philadelphia Eagles and Green Bay Packers. “A 43-year-old is not supposed to die in his sleep,” said Keith Johnson, spokesman for the White family. Although considered one of the best treatments for obstructive sleep apnea, many patients (up to 87% in some studies) are unable to wear the facemask, according to DOSA. They also can be used as a first-line therapy in treating mild-to-moderate obstructive sleep apnea, according to updated guidelines from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. “If Reggie would have known about oral appliances he might still be alive today,” Sara White said.