Team USA figure skater Alysa Liu made history at the 2026 Winter Olympics, capturing gold in the women’s singles event and adding to her earlier team gold medal. The 20-year-old athlete became the first American woman in 24 years to win an individual Olympic gold medal in figure skating. Entering the free skate in third place behind Japan’s Kaori Sakamoto and fellow competitor Ami Nakai, Liu delivered a standout performance, earning a score of 150.20 and securing victory by a narrow margin of 2.43 points. Her achievement was widely celebrated as a defining moment for U.S. figure skating.
As cameras focused on Liu celebrating with her teammates in Milan, many viewers noticed a distinctive detail in her smile. The small silver spikes visible above her teeth were part of a “smiley” piercing, a type of oral piercing that sits in the thin tissue connecting the upper lip to the gum. The piercing is typically visible only when a person smiles or lifts their lip, which explains its nickname. In a previous interview, Liu shared that she completed the piercing herself more than two years ago with assistance from her sister.
Following the increased attention around her Olympic appearance, health professionals have reminded the public that oral piercings can carry certain risks, particularly when not performed by licensed professionals. According to guidance from the American Dental Association (ADA), the mouth contains a high concentration of bacteria, which can increase the likelihood of infection or swelling after a piercing. Additional concerns may include irritation of the gums, enamel wear caused by metal jewelry contacting teeth, and possible allergic reactions to certain metals if high-quality materials are not used.
Dental health experts also note that oral piercings require ongoing care and maintenance. In some cases, swelling can interfere with normal breathing, and broken jewelry may pose a choking hazard. While more serious complications are rare, infections can occasionally develop if proper hygiene is not maintained. For anyone considering an oral piercing, professionals recommend consulting a qualified piercer and speaking with a dentist beforehand. Liu’s Olympic success remains the focus of her story, but medical experts emphasize that trends involving body modifications should always be approached thoughtfully and with attention to safety.
