EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE Computation of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Common Share (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended			6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012
Disclosure - Computation of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Common Share [Abstract]
Net income attributable to DENTSPLY International	$ 87,228		$ 80,764	$ 158,913	$ 134,049
Shares
Basic (in shares)	142,922	142,922	141,737	142,849	141,729
Incremental shares from assumed exercise of dilutive options from stock-based compensation awards (in shares)	2,211		2,126	2,258	2,179
Diluted (in shares)	145,133		143,863	145,107	143,908
Earnings per common share
Basic (in dollars per share)	$ 0.61		$ 0.57	$ 1.11	$ 0.95
Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 0.60		$ 0.56	$ 1.10	$ 0.93