BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS AND INVESTMENTS IN AFFILIATES Unaudited Financial Information had the Astra Tech Acquisition Occurred (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 2,923,011	$ 2,755,300
Net income attributable to DENTSPLY	$ 240,791	$ 275,360
Diluted earnings per common share	$ 1.68	$ 1.89