Question is, do I really need to wait 3 months with this enormous gap in my mouth before I can start the implant process?
Yes. I had one done six months ago (in San Diego). Fortunately, mine was a far back tooth so it wasn't obvious. Perhaps the could fit you for a retainer (or?) in the meantime. But yes, it takes months for the site to heal enough to install the implant.
Does anyone know how long I should be eating soft foods and doing salt washes? Is it just for a couple of days, or until the stitches have dissolved?
Salt washes for about three days (for me). I think soft food was similar, but I made sure to chew on the opposite side.
Good luck!