Jaw Problems (clicking/cracking)

I know that I usually give advice in this forum. I just wanna know if have any experience or know how to deal with this. My jaw is tense at times, gets tired and will make clicking or cracking sounds when I open my jaw. I use to grind my teeth while I sleep (to an insane degree, loud as heck), but now I don't, ever since I had some orthodontic work done. But I'm pretty sure this problem is due to years of grinding teeth. So I was wondering if any of you guys/girls experience this, and/or know any solutions or remedies.

Is this called Temporo-Mandibular...something or other?

My jaw does this, but not all the time. I also find it gets sore at the dentist just from having it open for any length of time, and also sometimes from plain old chewing. I think in my case though it's due to a mis-aligned dental bite.

What about asking on a dental or orthodontist's forum...maybe they might know more??

Yeah, thanks for the prompt response, Grace.

I know all about TMJ Syndrome. But I feel like I can't do much about it.

After getting ortho done, it stopped the grinding, but one would expect it to resolve on its own afterwards. But no..

Maybe I shouldn't sit at the computer for so long? lol

Its probably not set up ergonomically either.. -_-..

(neck is being affected as well, as of lately)

Yes, I've heard TMJ causes neck pain and headaches too...and I've heard it actually CAUSES teeth grinding, not the other way around...??

Yep, it's TMJ. I have it, too. I used to have to wear a splint at night and it helped quite a bit. I only have problems with it occasionally, but when I do, it's Hell! Moist heat and anti-inflammatories help (Aleve, Advil, or if it's really bad a steroid). A hot washcloth helps a bunch for me!