I have had tmj and jaw muscles have been in spasm and tight. is it a good sign if the tightness is fading and the muscles are beginning to ache?

Yes: Your muscle symptoms are improving and should continue to do so unless there is a reason for their development in the first place. Don't be surprised if they return and if they do seek care from your dentist or a dentist that specializes in temporomandibular disorders.

Good sign indeed: Moist heat, soft food, physical therapy, teeth apart during the day and NSAID otc will resolve the problem. However, see orofacial pain specialist for evaluation, diagnosis and future prevention.

Yes and no: Your signs are promising, but with tmj/tmd, the symptoms can recycle and come back. It is best to have a tmj/tmd dentist or specialist to rely upon when symptoms come back or to know what home care instructions you can follow up on if unable to get into the professional.

Complicated: Hard to say without more information. See a TMJ expert for advice. Any dentist can be a TMJ expert with the proper training and experience. Most commonly, oral surgeons, prosthodontists, and orofacial pain specialists. Ask your MD, your dentist and your dental society for referrals.