Wyndhy, you should try to get some kind of treatment option going so it doesn't turn full-blown into what I have...
I've had TMJ now since mid-August. It's annoying as hell and often hurts like a bitch. My problem is the jaw bone joint is rubbing bone-on-bone directly. I feel your pain, wyndyhy.
I was fitted for a mouth guard for the top row of my teeth by my dentist. I think that perhaps there may only be the slightest, teensiest bit of grinding going on, so I don't know if that's the best option for all. I'm not a clencher or known grinder...it doesn't seem to help me too much. I've had that guard since my diagnosis and so far I haven't noticed relief of any kind. I've had to give up fun things like chewing gum and submarine sandwiches.
Giving oral sex has really become a challenge for me...I feel like the TinMan in the Wizard of Oz when I go to open my mouth wide for him...he can often hear the "crack" of it as the jaw tries to expand. I've been very limited in what I can do for him with my mouth itself...it has become more of a tongue thing recently.
It even happens when I go to french kiss him...it's quite literally a pain in more ways than one.
My dentist said next step would be to try braces, and way down the line, surgery if things didn't improve. I have no insurance currently so all options are out for me. I'm down to using the mouth guard, ibuprofen, and moist heat packs.
Any chance that you could get a mouth guard or something as a preventative measure?