Can you tell me some types of jaw exercises to help loosen the jaw muscles (mainly around the joint?

Exercises?: Exercises may may it better or worse. Start by having a dentist trained and experience treating patients with tmd\tmjoint problems evaluate you. He\she can then suggest the best methods to treat your problem and prevent future issues. Some physical therapists are also knowledgeable in this area.

Sure: Gentle opening and closing without touching the teeth together.Same with moving jaw to left and right while slightly open. Take a popsicle stick or tongue depressor and place between front teeth.Slide lower jaw out and back gently.You may also gently stretch the muscles by opening to the comfortable max, and then use both index fingers to open slightly more - gently, little bit at a time. Massage.

TMJ exercises: Try putting your tongue on the roof of your mouth, opening your mouth wide with your tongue in place, and breathing in slowly for two counts, and out slowly for two counts. Release and repeat 6 times, every 3 hours. Make a fist and place it directly under your chin. Balance the weight of your fist and press as you gently try to open your jaw. See OFP for consult.

Link: http://www.ouh.nhs.uk/patient-guide/leaflets/files%5C120417tmjexercises.pdf