Searching for insight on TMJ?

I woke up about a week ago with some pain in my lower jaw. It would interfere with my eating and yawning.. just yesterday the pain moved from my jaw to my ear, and I went to a Family Quick Care to have my ear looked at. The physician said that it was TMJ (I know what it stands for) and that taking pain medication, such as Ibuprofen and Motrin would help. It is painful to clench my teeth together fully, and when I do I feel the pain in my ear. Is this something that will be a lifelong ailment, and any suggestions for helping it? Should I go to the dentist?