In the beginning stages of gum disease, signs and symptoms are easy to miss. That is why you should be vigilant in order to spot and catch it early before gum infection can cause permanent damage to teeth and gums. Having gum disease can make an individual suffer from bad breath. It maybe because of too many pungent food taken or maybe because of a missing toothbrushing. Your noticeable bad breath can be a sign of gum disease. Added to that, increased sensitivity in the gums, swollen and bleeding gums are warning signs as well. If you notice anything that seems to be out of the normal course of events, the best rule to follow is to see the dentist.