Gingivitis is a silent disease of the gums that can go unnoticed until bleeding accompanies brushing or flossing. Eating and dental hygiene become unpleasant because of the gum disease. Common symptoms include irritation, redness, swelling and easy bleeding of the gums. Other symptoms include bad breath, loose teeth, and receding gums that expose the roots of the teeth. The most common cause of gingivitis is plaque formation.