@chelsea79 First, get as strong as you can now, especially your quads and hamstrings- it will aid in recovery. Second, infection risk - the one to be concerned about is MRSA or methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus. The most common place of infection is the surgery or health care facility, so check their records. The second most likely source is if you're exposed to infectious bodily fluids in your work. As for risk from dental work or other procedures, you can find stuidies going both ways. I still premedicate before dental work, one dose every six months, not a big deal. I have had many surgeries, procedures, cared for my Mom who had chronic MRSA, and even some pretty dirty wounds since my hip surgeries and never got infected. On my "radar" infection risk once I'm healed from a surgery is far down the list.
Finally, recovery. The surgeon will tell you 4 to 6 weeks. That is basically wound healing and getting back on your feet. You may still get tired or sore, especially if you push too hard. Listen to your body. I was on a dance and hiking cruise 3 months after having both hips replaced 6 weeks apart. It would probably take me longer to heal now.
Are you having an overnight stay after surgery? Do you have someone at home to help you the first week or two?