(Vienna, 05 June 2025) The Austrian Research Promotion Agency FFG is funding the innovative project TMD TRACE ("TemporoMandibular Disorders – Training of neural networks and Research for Advanced Classification and Explanation of mandibular kinematics") through the BRIDGE 2024-02 program. The project is led by Benedikt Sagl, Head of the Competence Center Artificial Intelligence in Dentistry at the University Clinic of Dentistry and researcher at the Comprehensive Center AI in Medicine (CAIM), Medical University of Vienna.
Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) constitute a complex set of conditions characterized by pain in the temporomandibular joints and/or the masticatory muscles, often accompanied by limitations in mandibular function. To date, diagnosis and treatment decisions have often relied heavily on clinical experience and subjective criteria, leading to heterogeneous treatment outcomes. A quantitative method currently available is condylography, an established yet complex procedure that records three-dimensional jaw movements. Clinically valuable information, such as condylar paths or the coordination of both temporomandibular joints, is presently assessed manually, requiring high expertise.
The TMD TRACE project aims to develop an innovative AI-based software solution enabling objective and automated analyses of mandibular movement data. The project's goal is not only to accurately evaluate mandibular movement patterns but also to utilize the developed AI methods to optimize diagnosis and individual treatment decisions. This will potentially enable early and targeted treatment, significantly improving patients' quality of life.
The project is being conducted in close collaboration with the industrial partner Gamma Medizinisch-wissenschaftliche Fortbildungs-GmbH ("Gamma Dental") from Klosterneuburg, who contributes its expertise in digital mandibular motion analysis. Additionally, the Vienna School of Interdisciplinary Dentistry (VieSID) participates by providing extensive experience in clinical diagnostics and education in condylography and functional dentistry. The total funding awarded for the project amounts to EUR 355,712.00.
This interdisciplinary consortium highlights the strengths of the University Clinic of Dentistry in translational research and the development of digital technologies in dentistry.