alyssa liu

Alysa Liu’s Smile: The Olympic Star Behind a Trend That Could Hurt Her

When Alysa Liu glided onto the ice at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, she wasn’t just chasing gold—she was making history. At just 20 years old, Liu became the first American woman to win an individual figure skating medal in two decades, capturing silver in the women’s singles event. But it wasn’t just her flawless triple axel or emotional free skate that captured global attention.

It was her smile.

Not the kind you see in any magazine cover. Liu’s grin is unmistakable: a row of small, perfectly aligned piercings across her front teeth—what fans and critics alike have dubbed the “smiley piercing.” It’s become a signature part of her look, one that’s gone viral online and sparked conversations far beyond the rink. From TikTok trends to late-night talk shows, the question on everyone’s mind is simple: Why does Alysa Liu have so many piercings in her teeth?

But behind the sparkle lies a serious health concern—one that Olympic skaters, sports doctors, and dentists are now urging young athletes to consider carefully.

Why Does Alysa Liu Have So Many Piercings in Her Teeth?

Alysa Liu’s dental jewelry isn’t just a fashion statement. She has multiple piercings across her upper front teeth, a look she began experimenting with during her early competitive years. While some fans admire it as bold self-expression, medical professionals warn that this trend carries real risks—especially for high-performance athletes.

According to a Yahoo Sports report from February 2026, Liu’s “smiley” piercing setup has drawn both praise and concern. “It looks cool,” one observer noted, “but the trend poses serious health risks.”

The issue isn’t aesthetics alone. Dental piercings can interfere with breathing, speaking, and even swallowing during intense physical activity. For figure skaters like Liu, whose routines demand precision, breath control, and split-second coordination, even minor obstructions can affect performance.

Dr. Emily Tran, a sports dentist at the Mayo Clinic, explains: “Teeth piercings increase the risk of chipped or knocked-out teeth during falls or collisions. In contact sports like hockey or football, we see it all the time. But even in non-contact disciplines, repeated impact from landing jumps or hard landings on the ice can dislodge jewelry.”

Liu herself addressed the topic during a post-Olympics interview. “I love how it makes me feel,” she said. “But I know there are risks. I’ve had my fair share of close calls.”

Despite the dangers, Liu hasn’t removed her piercings. And she’s not alone. Across social media platforms, young athletes—from gymnasts to cheerleaders—are embracing oral body modification as a form of personal branding. But as more stars like Liu showcase these styles, experts are raising red flags.

The Rise of the “Smiley Piercing” Among Young Athletes

Liu’s influence is undeniable. After winning silver at the 2026 Games, her Instagram following surged by over 400,000. Many of her new followers are teens asking: Can I get a smiley piercing too? The answer from health professionals is a resounding no—especially for those involved in sports.

The “smiley piercing” typically involves placing jewelry through the gum line between the two front teeth, creating a horizontal row that resembles a smile. While popularized by musicians and influencers, it’s now creeping into the world of elite athletics.

A USA Today investigation found that at least five U.S. national team athletes—including two gymnasts and a pair of synchronized swimmers—have similar oral piercings. None were publicly named, but sources confirm they’ve received warnings from team physicians.

“We’re seeing more young athletes opting for these piercings without understanding the consequences,” says Dr. Marcus Lee, a pediatric dentist in Denver. “They don’t realize how easily a fall can cause trauma. A single blow to the face during a routine could lead to nerve damage, root fractures, or even the need for surgery.”

For Liu, who retired briefly at age 16 before returning stronger than ever, the stakes are higher. Her comeback story—documented in ESPN profiles and The New York Times—highlighted her resilience. But it also underscores how much she relies on her physical health.

Medical Risks: What Happens When Teeth Get Pierced?

Let’s be clear: dental piercings aren’t harmless. Here’s what happens when someone gets a smiley piercing:

• Increased Risk of Injury: During a fall, the mouth is often the first point of contact. A piercing can act like a spear, increasing the chance of tooth fracture or soft tissue damage.

• Gum Recession: Constant pressure from jewelry can wear down enamel and pull back gums, exposing sensitive root surfaces.

• Infection: Oral piercings harbor bacteria. If not cleaned properly, they can lead to infections like gingivitis or even abscesses.

• Speech and Breathing Difficulties: Large or improperly placed jewelry may interfere with articulation or restrict airflow—critical for athletes who rely on controlled breathing during routines.

Liu’s case is particularly notable because she competes at the highest level. Her free skate program at the 2026 Olympics included jumps requiring precise breath control, like the flying camel spin and triple lutz-triple toe loop combination.

“If something were to go wrong mid-program,” says former Olympian and sports psychologist Dr. Rachel Kim, “it could cost her medals—and worse, long-term health.”

The Cultural Shift: Self-Expression vs. Safety

So why do athletes still choose these piercings?

For many, especially young women like Liu, it’s about identity. After retiring from skating at 16 due to burnout and family pressures, Liu took time to reconnect with herself. When she returned in 2024, her style evolved—both on and off the ice.

Her piercings became part of a larger narrative: reclaiming autonomy over her body and career. As she told The New York Times, “I wanted to come back on my terms. Not theirs. My smile? That’s mine.”

That sentiment resonates across generations. In a world where female athletes are increasingly expected to conform to narrow beauty standards, Liu’s unapologetic style is revolutionary.

Yet, revolution doesn’t negate responsibility.

Sports organizations are beginning to address the issue. USA Gymnastics recently updated its athlete guidelines to include warnings about body modifications that pose health risks. The U.S. Figure Skating Association declined comment, but sources say internal discussions about piercings are ongoing.

Parents and coaches also play a role. While Liu made her own decision, most young athletes don’t have the same agency.

“We need better education,” says Dr. Tran. “Not just about performance, but about personal safety. Piercings might look cool in a mirror, but they can ruin a career—or worse, a life.”

Timeline of Key Developments

Immediate Effects: Media Frenzy and Athlete Concerns

Since the Olympics, Liu’s smile piercing has been featured in headlines across major outlets. Yahoo Sports called it “a bold choice with hidden dangers.” The New York Times highlighted it as part of her “unconventional path.” USA Today asked: What’s on Alysa Liu’s teeth?

Social media exploded. Memes flooded Twitter and Instagram. Brands reached out to collaborate. But underneath the buzz, concern grows.

Several current and former athletes have spoken anonymously about being pressured to hide their piercings before competitions. One junior skater told ESPN she removed hers after her coach said it “distracted judges.”

Liu’s response? Silence—except for a cryptic post on X (formerly Twitter): “My body, my rules. Stay safe.”

Analysts suggest this silence speaks volumes. By not condemning the trend outright, Liu allows fans to form their own opinions—while subtly acknowledging the risks.

Future Outlook: Will the Trend Fade—Or Force Change?

The future of oral piercings in sports