A general dentist is not really going to help you. If you can find a TMJ specialist in your area, they can do joint injections. But there is not really much that can be done. If they suggest surgery, run, imo! If it goes badly there is no turning back!
The specialist is going to make the hairs and go over all of the things to avoid, just what you said, soft diet, wear your mouth guard etc.
If you have a muscle relaxer to take at night that is very helpful to stop some of the grinding.
If not check with whatever doc you go to. It may take a week or so to calm down, but no stress, no clenching!
Best wishes , I’m a TJMD sufferer for 30+ years, it’s a manage symptoms as they come up kinda thing.