Jaw Discomfort

For about a month, every evening when I get home from work, my jaw feels like it is swelling. The feeling is uncomfortable, but not painful. It occurs on both sides of my jaw. When working, my mouth moves so much, it doesn't have time to stiffen up. During dinner the first bite is always the hardest to open my month completely. Once I start chewing, it seems to go away. Then when I become relaxed, the feeling comes back. I have not noticed any other symptoms at all. Any ideas or recommendations?

Thank you, Jason

[Jerome Tsang, DDS]

I'm not sure how your mouth moves so much during work.  I suppose if its stiff or swollen, it may be from overuse and muscle fatigue.  Try to stretch it out during the day and possibly ice the muscles.  If its associated with your relax/unrelaxed state, you may be clenching during the day from stress.  You might need to find some ways to manage your stress and that may also help resolve the issue.