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Lead Acid batteries are sealed. That would be a serious fire/explosion risk if that was the case. I've disconnected my battery probably a dozen times (- only). It really doesn't matter what side is disconnected. In electrical engineering terms, all you have to do is open the circuit (disconnected at least one terminal) to remove power.
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Not all lead acid batteries are sealed. Also, I believe the battery will still give off hydrogen if overcharged, or charged too quickly. In a sealed battery, if there is any hydrogen formed, it should be recombined into water within the battery, BUT it still can escape through an escape valve should there be an excess formed (to prevent explosion of the battery from internal pressure). Upon second thought this would be more rare in a sealed lead-acid (e.g. car) battery, but can still happen. Opening the circuit is the important idea for disconnecting the battery, but from a safety standpoint, its important to remove the negative. Otherwise, you still have the common at all metal on the car, and a slip with the wrench or your self causes a short. Which wire to remove in a live circuit can be an important distinction if you ask me...but like I said before I'm paranoid!
Tim