Depreciation and Amortization (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011		Dec. 31, 2010		Dec. 31, 2009
Reconciliation of Depreciation by Segment [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	$ 93,058		$ 66,340		$ 65,175
U.S., Germany and Certain Other European Regions Consumable Businesses
Reconciliation of Depreciation by Segment [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	16,120		16,315		14,945
France, U.K., Italy snd Certain Other European Countries, CIS, Middle East, Africa, Pacific Rim Businesses
Reconciliation of Depreciation by Segment [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	3,560		3,939		3,884
Canada/ Latin America/ Endodontics/ Orthodontics/ Astra Tech
Reconciliation of Depreciation by Segment [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	37,492		18,419		16,978
Dental Laboratory Business/ Implants/ Non Dental
Reconciliation of Depreciation by Segment [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	25,266		20,479		21,461
All Other
Reconciliation of Depreciation by Segment [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	$ 10,620	[1]	$ 7,188	[1]	$ 7,907	[1]

[1] Includes amounts recorded at Corporate headquarters.