Justin,

Call me Mike, Justin, I am a person just like yourself.
Research, can often times, especially if conducted on the internet, mislead and provide horrendously inaccurate and inappropriate information. This scares the socks off a lot of people. There is a large amount of accurate good info on the internet but you have to be carefully selective in what you determine is accurate. I have to emphasize that if you are worried or concerned that you need to have the areas examined by a qualified individual. I cannot diagnose anything without all the information.
My thought's (just thoughts not a clinical opinion or diagnosis) on your picture, symptoms and history, without having had the ability to examine you or take x-rays, would be; many conditions resemble your picture and most are minor however, I cannot offer a professional opinion without all the information. I am lacking x-rays and a head and neck exam in your case. I do feel strongly that you should have someone examine and take appropriate x-rays of the area. Keep your dentist appointment and let me know after if all is well.
Try not to let worry and anxiety and fear of the worst monopolize your thoughts.
My pathology professor in Dental School always made this statement,"... when you look in a horse barn look for the horses first, don't look for Zebra's because they are easy to see and then you'll miss the horses."

I'm here for you.

Cheers,
Mike