Everyone's been asking: What's that flash of silver on Alysa Liu's teeth? The 20-year-old figure skating sensation captivating fans at the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics has a unique answer—it's not braces, gems, or jewelry glued to her teeth. Alysa Liu has a self-done smiley piercing, not braces, on her front teeth.
Here's where it gets wild: Liu did the piercing herself and told NBC affiliate TMJ4 News, saying she'd "had my sister hold up my lip, and I was looking in the mirror, and I had my piercing needle, and yeah, just put it through." The piercing was done a little over two years ago. Liu has explained that DIY body modification is "another hobby" she picked up because "getting pierced at a shop is really expensive" and she trusts herself "to get it in the right spot placement wise for the jewelry."
The frenulum piercing—commonly known as the "smiley" piercing—is located in the tissue that connects the upper gum to the lip. The smiley piercing is so-named because it won't be seen unless you smile, making it a fun choice for those who want an oral piercing that's more low key than other lip and mouth piercing variations. That means it's hidden until she flashes that signature grin on the ice—which is exactly why fans are noticing it now during her Olympic performances.
While Liu's piercing looks cool, doctors have concerns. Dental experts warn such piercings can cause infections, gum, and enamel damage. Infection can lead to gum disease that causes teeth to fall out, and inflammation that may result in irreversible receding gums, exposing the sensitive roots of the teeth. Cosmetic dentist Dr. Edward Liu advises that if you still decide to get an oral piercing, make sure the procedure is performed by a trained professional who uses sterile instruments. (Hint: doing it yourself with your sister holding up your lip, while undeniably DIY-cool, isn't the safest route.)
Still, Liu's bold choice—from her self-done piercing to her striped "angel halo" hair and grunge-inspired style—has made her one of the most distinctive athletes at these Games. When she takes the ice, she's doing it on her own terms, and fans can't help but notice. The smiley piercing? It's just another part of the Alysa Liu brand.