"Temporomandibular" is a long, long word that means "jaw." Well, sort of. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw bone (mandible) to your skull. People with TMJ problems may have pain or discomfort around the joint itself, or in the jaw muscles. Clicking, popping and grating of the jaw joint also are common symptoms of people with TMJ problems, as well as problems opening the mouth very wide. Some people with TMJ problems have problems closing their mouths.

More than 10 million people have some form of TMJ problem at some point in their lives, so you're not alone. TMJ problems are most common in women between the ages of 20 and 40, and stress can be a factor.

Yuck Factor: Varies. You may hear your jaw click while you eat.

Ouch Factor: Low to high. Pain and discomfort levels vary.

Making It Better

Fortunately, most TMJ problems can be fixed using home treatment or nonsurgical options. Try the following:

• Open your mouth as little as possible.
  
• When resting your jaw, keep your teeth apart, lips closed, tongue on the roof of your mouth. (Now smile and say "Cheese!" No wait, that was a school picture flashback. Sorry…)
  
• If there is no swelling near your jaw joint (just below and behind your ear), alternate moist heat and ice packs on the joint. Use an ice pack for five to 10 minutes, three times a day. Apply moist heat three times a day for about the same amount of time. Gently open and close your mouth while the heat is being applied.
  
• If you notice swelling around the TMJ, forget about the moist heat and use ice six times a day for five to 10 minutes.
  
• Take aspirin or ibuprofen to relieve pain and reduce swelling.
  
• Check out the "Don’t Let It Happen Again!" section for more information.
  

When To See The Doctor

• If the pain is severe or if your jaw locks in certain positions
  
• After any injury that changes the way your jaw moves
  
• If you try home treatment for two weeks without signs of improvement
  

Don't Let It Happen Again!

To prevent further TMJ problems, try these tips:

• Relax! Muscle tension in the jaw can worsen TMJ problems.
  
• If you notice discomfort or pain in your jaw muscles, avoid tough foods and chewing gum.
  
• Maintain good posture. (See, your mom was right after all.) This will help to keep your facial bones and muscles in their natural positions.
  
• Make regular visits to your dentist. Some people clench their teeth without realizing it (both at night and during the day), which can cause TMJ problems. Your dentist can treat this condition, which can help relieve your symptoms.