EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Notes to Financial Statements [Abstract]

Computation of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Common Share

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per common share:

(in thousands, except for per share amounts)	Net income attributable to DENTSPLY International		Shares	Earnings per common share
Year Ended December 31, 2012
Basic	$	314,213	141,850	$	2.22
Incremental shares from assumed exercise of dilutive options	—		2,095
Diluted	$	314,213	143,945	$	2.18
Year Ended December 31, 2011
Basic	$	244,520	141,386	$	1.73
Incremental shares from assumed exercise of dilutive options	—		2,167
Diluted	$	244,520	143,553	$	1.70
Year Ended December 31, 2010
Basic	$	265,708	143,980	$	1.85
Incremental shares from assumed exercise of dilutive options	—		2,005
Diluted	$	265,708	145,985	$	1.82