DENTSPLY SIRONA (XRAY) 10-K 20 Feb 14 2013 FY Annual report Financial data

DOCUMENT_AND_ENTITY_INFORMAITO

DOCUMENT AND ENTITY INFORMAITON (Parentheticals) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Feb. 13, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Entity [Abstract]	'	'	'
Entity Registrant Name	'DENTSPLY INTERNATIONAL INC /DE/	'	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0000818479	'	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--12-31	'	'
Entity Filer Category	'Large Accelerated Filer	'	'
Document Type	'10-K	'	'
Trading Symbol	'XRAY	'	'
Document Period End Date	31-Dec-13	'	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2013	'	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'FY	'	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	141,813,505	'
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	'Yes	'	'
Entity Voluntary Filers	'No	'	'
Entity Current Reporting Status	'Yes	'	'
Entity Public Float	'	'	$5,825,578,435

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_OPE

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Net sales	$2,950,770	$2,928,429	$2,537,718
Cost of products sold	1,373,358	1,372,042	1,264,278
Gross profit	1,577,412	1,556,387	1,273,440
Selling, general and administrative expenses	1,144,890	1,148,731	936,847
Restructuring and other costs	13,356	25,717	35,865
Operating income	419,166	381,939	300,728
Other income and expenses:	'	'	'
Interest Expense	49,625	56,851	43,814
Interest income	-8,123	-8,760	-8,237
Other expense (income), net	8,329	3,169	9,040
Income before income taxes	369,335	330,679	256,111
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	52,150	8,920	11,016
Equity in net income (loss) of unconsolidated affilated company	976	-3,270	2,351
Net income	318,161	318,489	247,446
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	4,969	4,276	2,926
Net income attributable to DENTSPLY International	$313,192	$314,213	$244,520
Earnings per common share:	'	'	'
Basic	$2.20	$2.22	$1.73
Diluted	$2.16	$2.18	$1.70
Weighted average common shares outstanding:	'	'	'
Basic	142,663	141,850	141,386
Diluted	144,965	143,945	143,553

CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE_SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$0.01	$0.01
Current Assets:	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$74,954	$80,132
Accounts and notes receivable-trade, net	472,802	442,412
Inventories, net	438,559	402,940
Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current	157,487	185,612
Total Current Assets	1,143,802	1,111,096
Property, plant and equipment, net	637,172	614,705
Identifiable intangible assets, net	795,323	830,642
Goodwill, net	2,281,596	2,210,953
Other noncurrent assets, net	220,154	204,901
Total Assets	5,078,047	4,972,297
Current Liabilities:	'	'
Accounts payable	132,789	165,290
Accrued liabilities	339,308	424,336
Income taxes payable	14,446	39,191
Notes payable and current portion of long-term debt	309,862	298,963
Total Current Liabilities	796,405	927,780
Long-term debt	1,166,178	1,222,035
Deferred income taxes	238,394	232,641
Other noncurrent liabilities	299,096	340,398
Total Liabilities	2,500,073	2,722,854
Commitments and contingencies	'	'
Equity:	'	'
Preferred stock, $.01 par value; .25 million shares authorized; no shares issued	0	0
Common stock, $.01 par value; 200.0 million shares authorized; 162.8 million shares issued at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively	1,628	1,628
Capital in excess of par value	255,272	246,548
Retained earnings	3,095,721	2,818,461
Accumulated other comprehensive income	-69,062	-144,200
Treasury stock, at cost, 20.5 million shares at December 31, 2013 and 20.5 million shares at December 31, 2012	-748,506	-713,739
Total DENTSPLY International Equity	2,535,053	2,208,698
Noncontrolling Interests	42,921	40,745
Total Equity	2,577,974	2,249,443
Total Liabilities and Equity	$5,078,047	$4,972,297
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized	250,000	250,000
Preferred Stock, Shares Issued	0	0
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$0.01	$0.01
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	200,000,000	200,000,000
Common Stock, Shares, Issued	162,800,000	162,800,000
Treasury Stock, Shares	20,500,000	20,500,000

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_EQU

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (USD $)	Total	Common Stock	Capital in Excess of Par Value	Retained Earnings	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Treasury Stock	Total DENTSPLY International Equity	Noncontrolling Interests
Beginning Balance at Dec. 31, 2010	$1,909,912,000	$1,628,000	$204,902,000	$2,320,350,000	$24,156,000	($711,650,000)	$1,839,386,000	$70,526,000
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid	$0.21	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	2,730,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Comprehensive Income:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net income	247,446,000	'	'	244,520,000	'	'	244,520,000	2,926,000
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Foreign currency translation adjustment	-208,009,000	'	'	'	-213,264,000	'	'	'
Net loss on derivative financial instruments	9,258,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net unrealized holding gains on available-for-sale investments	-11,500,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Comprehensive Income	33,986,000	'	'	'	-1,862,000	'	'	'
Acquisition of noncontrolling interest	-16,088,000	'	22,782,000	'	'	'	20,920,000	'
Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Redemptions or Purchase of Interests	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-37,008,000
Exercise of stock options	42,275,000	'	-14,677,000	'	'	56,952,000	42,275,000	'
Tax benefit from stock options exercised	1,039,000	'	1,039,000	'	'	'	1,039,000	'
Share based compensation expense	20,947,000	'	20,947,000	'	'	'	20,947,000	'
Funding of Employee Stock Option Plan	2,974,000	'	379,000	'	'	2,595,000	2,974,000	'
Treasury shares purchased	-79,500,000	'	'	'	'	-79,500,000	-79,500,000	'
Dividends from noncontrolling interests	-174,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	-174,000
RSU distributions	-2,246,000	'	-5,872,000	'	'	-3,626,000	-2,246,000	'
RSU dividends	'	'	-187,000	-187,000	'	'	'	'
Cash dividends ($0.250 in 2013,$0.220 in 2012 and $0.205 in 2011 per share)	-28,974,000	'	'	-28,974,000	'	'	-28,974,000	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax	-11,545,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax	-3,164,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	-213,460,000	'	'	'	'	'	-213,264,000	-196,000
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent	31,256,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2011	1,884,151,000	1,628,000	229,687,000	2,535,709,000	-190,970,000	-727,977,000	1,848,077,000	36,074,000
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid	$0.22	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	4,671,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Comprehensive Income:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net income	318,489,000	'	'	314,213,000	'	'	314,213,000	4,276,000
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Foreign currency translation adjustment	93,775,000	'	'	'	46,770,000	'	'	'
Net loss on derivative financial instruments	-25,752,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net unrealized holding gains on available-for-sale investments	-18,300,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Comprehensive Income	365,654,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Exercise of stock options	34,183,000	'	-10,482,000	'	'	44,665,000	34,183,000	'
Tax benefit from stock options exercised	13,009,000	'	13,009,000	'	'	'	13,009,000	'
Share based compensation expense	22,187,000	'	22,187,000	'	'	'	22,187,000	'
Funding of Employee Stock Option Plan	3,641,000	'	370,000	'	'	3,271,000	3,641,000	'
Treasury shares purchased	-38,837,000	'	'	'	'	-38,837,000	-38,837,000	'
RSU distributions	-3,314,000	'	-8,453,000	'	'	-5,139,000	-3,314,000	'
RSU dividends	0	'	-230,000	-230,000	'	0	0	'
Cash dividends ($0.250 in 2013,$0.220 in 2012 and $0.205 in 2011 per share)	-31,231,000	'	'	-31,231,000	'	'	-31,231,000	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax	18,338,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax	-39,196,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	47,165,000	'	'	'	'	'	46,770,000	395,000
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent	360,983,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2012	2,249,443,000	1,628,000	246,548,000	2,818,461,000	-144,200,000	-713,739,000	2,208,698,000	40,745,000
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid	$0.25	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	7,210,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Comprehensive Income:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net income	318,161,000	'	'	313,192,000	'	'	313,192,000	4,969,000
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Foreign currency translation adjustment	88,931,000	'	'	'	75,138,000	'	'	'
Net loss on derivative financial instruments	-29,725,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net unrealized holding gains on available-for-sale investments	-5,100,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Comprehensive Income	395,540,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Acquisition of noncontrolling interest	-8,960,000	'	-3,926,000	'	0	'	-3,926,000	'
Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Redemptions or Purchase of Interests	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-5,034,000
Exercise of stock options	66,913,000	'	-7,317,000	'	'	74,230,000	66,913,000	'
Tax benefit from stock options exercised	2,406,000	'	2,406,000	'	'	'	2,406,000	'
Share based compensation expense	25,099,000	'	25,099,000	'	'	'	25,099,000	'
Funding of Employee Stock Option Plan	4,657,000	'	959,000	'	'	3,698,000	4,657,000	'
Treasury shares purchased	-118,024,000	'	'	'	'	-118,024,000	-118,024,000	'
RSU distributions	-3,466,000	'	-8,795,000	'	'	-5,329,000	-3,466,000	'
RSU dividends	0	'	-298,000	-298,000	'	0	0	'
Cash dividends ($0.250 in 2013,$0.220 in 2012 and $0.205 in 2011 per share)	-35,634,000	'	'	-35,634,000	'	'	-35,634,000	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax	-5,093,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax	23,266,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	77,379,000	'	'	'	'	'	75,138,000	2,241,000
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent	388,330,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2013	$2,577,974,000	$1,628,000	$255,272,000	$3,095,721,000	($69,062,000)	($748,506,000)	$2,535,053,000	$42,921,000

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_CAS

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Cash flows from operating activities:	'	'	'
Net income	$318,161,000	$318,489,000	$247,446,000
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:	'	'	'
Depreciation	81,639,000	79,456,000	64,039,000
Amortization of intangible and other assets	46,264,000	49,743,000	20,996,000
Amortization of deferred financing costs	4,984,000	7,045,000	8,023,000
Deferred income taxes	-29,156,000	-65,527,000	-88,402,000
Share based compensation expense	25,099,000	22,187,000	20,947,000
Restructuring and other costs - non-cash	14,008,000	20,229,000	2,460,000
Stock option income tax benefit	-2,406,000	-13,009,000	-1,039,000
Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments	-976,000	3,270,000	-2,351,000
Other non-cash expense (income)	19,760,000	-15,564,000	20,938,000
Loss (gain) on disposal of property, plant and equipment	685,000	808,000	570,000
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions:	'	'	'
Accounts and notes receivable-trade, net	-32,532,000	-12,591,000	1,469,000
Inventories, net	-25,367,000	-36,792,000	21,503,000
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	26,929,000	-15,126,000	-933,000
Other noncurrent assets	-1,065,000	853,000	-1,560,000
Accounts payable	-36,728,000	12,843,000	10,816,000
Accrued liabilities	-4,187,000	-976,000	42,218,000
Income taxes	-458,000	22,105,000	26,139,000
Other noncurrent liabilities	13,192,000	-7,758,000	190,000
Net cash provided by operating activities	417,846,000	369,685,000	393,469,000
Cash flows from investing activities:	'	'	'
Cash paid for acquisitions of businesses and equity investments	-66,247,000	-4,861,000	-1,787,516,000
Capital expenditures	-100,345,000	-92,072,000	-71,186,000
Purchase of company owned life insurance policies	-1,500,000	-1,577,000	0
Proceeds from Hedge, Investing Activities	10,784,000	0	0
Payments on settlement of net investment hedges	-104,880,000	-14,221,000	-25,575,000
Expenditures for identifiable intangible assets	-1,076,000	-3,329,000	-3,068,000
Liquidations of short-term investments	0	0	6,000
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment	3,033,000	1,039,000	497,000
Net cash used in investing activities	-260,231,000	-115,021,000	-1,886,842,000
Cash flows from financing activities:	'	'	'
Proceeds from long-term borrowings, net of deferred financing costs	174,628,000	0	1,106,514,000
Payments on long-term borrowings	-251,383,000	0	-251,932,000
Increase (decrease) in short-term borrowings	57,261,000	-228,912,000	270,209,000
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	66,913,000	34,183,000	42,275,000
Excess tax benefits from share based compensation	2,406,000	13,009,000	1,039,000
Cash paid for contingent consideration on prior acquisitions	0	-2,519,000	-3,023,000
Cash paid for acquisition of noncontrolling interests of consolidated subsidiaries	-8,960,000	0	-16,088,000
Cash paid for treasury stock	-118,024,000	-38,837,000	-79,500,000
Cash dividends paid	-34,874,000	-31,425,000	-28,632,000
Proceeds from Hedge, Financing Activities	7,000	0	0
Payments for Hedge, Financing Activities	49,659,000	1,108,000	38,481,000
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	-161,685,000	-255,609,000	1,002,381,000
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	-1,108,000	3,949,000	28,082,000
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents	-5,178,000	3,004,000	-462,910,000
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	80,132,000	77,128,000	540,038,000
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	74,954,000	80,132,000	77,128,000
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:	'	'	'
Interest paid, net of amounts capitalized	50,469,000	60,166,000	34,048,000
Income taxes paid	$49,832,000	$109,544,000	$58,646,000

SIGNIFICANT_ACCOUNTING_POLICIE

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES	'
	SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
	Description of Business
	DENTSPLY International Inc. (“DENTSPLY” or the “Company”), designs, develops, manufactures and markets a broad range of consumable dental products for the professional dental market.  The Company believes that it is the world’s leading manufacturer and distributor of dental prosthetics, endodontic instruments and materials, and ultrasonic scalers; the leading U.S. manufacturer and distributor of denture teeth, dental handpieces, dental x-ray film holders, film mounts and prophylaxis paste; and a leading worldwide manufacturer or distributor of impression materials, orthodontic appliances, dental cutting instruments, dental implants and restorative dental materials, dental sealants, and crown and bridge materials. The Company also manufactures and distributes consumable medical device products consisting mainly of urological catheters and certain surgical products. The Company distributes its products in over 120 countries under some of the most well established brand names in the industry.
	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“US GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expense during the reporting period.  Actual results could differ from those estimates, and such differences may be material to the consolidated financial statements.
	Principles of Consolidation
	The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company. The Company also consolidates all variable interest entities (“VIE”) where the Company has determined that it has the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance and shares in either the significant risks or rewards of the VIE. The Company continually reassesses its VIE to determine if consolidation is appropriate. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated in consolidation.
	Investments in nonconsolidated affiliates (20-50 percent owned companies, joint ventures and partnerships as well as less than 20 percent ownership positions where the Company maintains significant influence over the subsidiary) are accounted for using the equity method.
	The accompanying audited Consolidated Statements of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2011 include the results of operations for Astra Tech AB (“Astra Tech”) for the period September 1, 2011 to December 31, 2011.
	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	Cash and cash equivalents include deposits with banks as well as highly liquid time deposits with maturities at the date of purchase of ninety days or less.
	Short-term Investments
	Short-term investments are highly liquid time deposits with original maturities at the date of purchase greater than ninety days and with remaining maturities of one year or less.
	Accounts and Notes Receivable-Trade
	The Company sells dental and certain medical products through a worldwide network of distributors and directly to end users.  For customers on credit terms, the Company performs ongoing credit evaluation of those customers’ financial condition and generally does not require collateral from them.  The Company establishes allowances for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of its customers to make required payments.  The Company records a provision for doubtful accounts, which is included in “Selling, general and administrative expenses” in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
	Accounts receivable – trade is stated net of these allowances that were $14.2 million and $13.6 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company wrote-off $2.5 million and $3.8 million, respectively, of accounts receivable that were previously reserved.  The Company increased the provision for doubtful accounts by $2.9 million and $2.4 million during 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	Additionally, notes receivable – trade is stated net of these allowances that were $0.5 million and $0.9 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.  The Company recorded provisions for doubtful accounts on notes receivable – trade of $0.0 million for 2013 and $0.1 million for 2012.  Additionally, the Company wrote-off $0.4 million and $0.2 million in 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	Inventories
	Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market.  At December 31, 2013 and 2012, the cost of $6.5 million and $6.3 million, respectively, of inventories was determined by the last in, first-out (“LIFO”) method.  The cost of other inventories was determined by the first-in, first-out (“FIFO”) or average cost methods.  The Company establishes reserves for inventory estimated to be obsolete or unmarketable equal to the difference between the cost of inventory and estimated market value based upon assumptions about future demand and market conditions.
	If the FIFO method had been used to determine the cost of LIFO inventories, the amounts at which net inventories are stated would be higher than reported at December 31, 2013 and 2012 by $5.9 million and $5.9 million, respectively.
	Valuation of Goodwill and Other Long-Lived Assets
	Assessment of the potential impairment of goodwill and other long-lived assets is an integral part of the Company’s normal ongoing review of operations. Testing for potential impairment of these assets is significantly dependent on assumptions and reflects management’s best estimates at a particular point in time. The dynamic economic environments in which the Company’s businesses operate and key economic and business assumptions with respect to projected selling prices, increased competition and introductions of new technologies can significantly affect the outcome of impairment tests. Estimates based on these assumptions may differ significantly from actual results. Changes in factors and assumptions used in assessing potential impairments can have a significant impact on the existence and magnitude of impairments, as well as the time at which such impairments are recognized. If there are unfavorable changes in these assumptions, future cash flows, a key variable in assessing the impairment of these assets, may decrease and as a result the Company may be required to recognize impairment charges. Future changes in the environment and the economic outlook for the assets being evaluated could also result in additional impairment charges being recognized. The following information outlines the Company’s significant accounting policies on long-lived assets by type.
	Goodwill
	Goodwill is the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of identifiable net assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination. Goodwill is not amortized. Goodwill is tested for impairment annually, during the Company’s second quarter, or when indications of potential impairment exist. The Company monitors for the existence of potential impairment throughout the year.  This impairment assessment includes an evaluation of various reporting units, which is an operating segment or one reporting level below the operating segment. The Company performs impairment tests using a fair value approach. The Company compares the fair value of each reporting unit to its carrying amount to determine if there is potential goodwill impairment. If impairment is identified on goodwill, the resulting charge is determined by recalculating goodwill through a hypothetical purchase price allocation of the fair value and reducing the current carrying value to the extent it exceeds the recalculated goodwill.
	The Company’s fair value approach involves using a discounted cash flow model with market-based support as its valuation technique to measure the fair value for its reporting units. The discounted cash flow model uses five-year forecasted cash flows plus a terminal value based on a multiple of earnings. In addition, the Company applies gross profit and operating expense assumptions consistent with its historical trends. The total cash flows were discounted based on market participant data, which included the Company’s weighted-average cost of capital. The Company considered the current market conditions when determining its assumptions. Lastly, the Company reconciled the aggregate fair values of its reporting units to its market capitalization, which included a reasonable control premium based on market conditions. Additional information related to the testing for goodwill impairment is provided in Note 9, Goodwill and Intangible Assets.
	Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
	Indefinite-lived intangible assets consist of tradenames and are not subject to amortization. Valuations of identifiable intangibles assets acquired are based on information and assumptions available at the time of acquisition, using income and market model approaches to determine fair value. In-process research and development assets are not subject to amortization until the product associated with the research and development is substantially complete and is a viable product. At that time, the useful life to amortize the intangible asset is determined by identifying the period in which substantially all the cash flows are expected to be generated and the asset is moved to definite-lived.
	These assets are reviewed for impairment annually or whenever events or circumstances suggest that the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable. The Company uses an income approach, more specifically a relief from royalty method. Significant management judgment is necessary to determine key assumptions, including projected revenue, royalty rates and appropriate discount rates. Royalty rates used are consistent with those assumed for the original purchase accounting valuation. Other assumptions are consistent with those applied to goodwill impairment testing. If the carrying value exceeds the fair value, an impairment loss in the amount equal to the excess is recognized.
	Identifiable Definite-Lived Intangible Assets
	Identifiable definite-lived intangible assets, which primarily consist of patents, trademarks, brand names, non-compete agreements and licensing agreements, are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives. Valuations of identifiable intangibles assets acquired are based on information and assumptions available at the time of acquisition, using income and market model approaches to determine fair value.
	These assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or circumstances suggest that the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable.  The Company closely monitors certain intangible assets related to new and existing technologies for indicators of impairment as these assets have more risk of becoming impaired.  Impairment is based upon an initial evaluation of the identifiable undiscounted cash flows.  If the initial evaluation identifies a potential impairment, a fair value is determined by using a discounted cash flows valuation.  If impaired, the resulting charge reflects the excess of the asset’s carrying cost over its fair value.
	Property, Plant and Equipment
	Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation.  Except for leasehold improvements, depreciation for financial reporting purposes is computed by the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives: buildings - generally 40 years and machinery and equipment - 4 to 15 years.  The cost of leasehold improvements is amortized over the shorter of the estimated useful life or the term of the lease.  Maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred to the statement of operations; replacements and major improvements are capitalized.  These assets groups are reviewed for impairment whenever events or circumstances suggest that the carrying amount of the asset group may not be recoverable.  Impairment is based upon an evaluation of the identifiable undiscounted cash flows.  If impaired, the resulting charge reflects the excess of the asset group’s carrying cost over its fair value.
	Marketable Securities
	The Company’s marketable securities consist of debt instruments that are classified as available-for-sale in “Other noncurrent assets, net” on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as the instruments mature in December 2015. The Company determined the appropriate classification at the time of purchase and will re-evaluate such designation as of each balance sheet date. In addition, the Company reviews the securities each quarter for indications of possible impairment. Once identified, the determination of whether the impairment is temporary or other-than-temporary requires significant judgment. The primary factors that the Company considers in classifying the impairment include the extent and time the fair value of each investment has been below cost and the existence of a credit loss. If a decline in fair value is judged other-than-temporary, the basis of the securities is written down to fair value and the amount of the write-down is included as a realized loss.
	Derivative Financial Instruments
	The Company records all derivative instruments on the consolidated balance sheet at fair value and changes in fair value are recorded each period in the consolidated statements of operations or accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”).
	The Company employs derivative financial instruments to hedge certain anticipated transactions, firm commitments, and assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies.  Additionally, the Company utilizes interest rate swaps to convert floating rate debt to fixed rate, fixed rate debt to floating rate, cross currency basis swaps to convert debt denominated in one currency to another currency, and commodity swaps to fix its variable raw materials costs.
	Pension and Other Postemployment Benefits
	Some of the employees of the Company and its subsidiaries are covered by government or Company-sponsored defined benefit plans. Many of the employees have available to them defined contribution plans.  Additionally, certain union and salaried employee groups in the United States are covered by postemployment healthcare plans.  Costs for Company-sponsored defined benefit and postemployment benefit plans are based on expected return on plan assets, discount rates, employee compensation increase rates and health care cost trends.  Expected return on plan assets, discount rates and health care cost trend assumptions are particularly important when determining the Company’s benefit obligations and net periodic benefit costs associated with postemployment benefits.  Changes in these assumptions can impact the Company’s earnings before income taxes.  In determining the cost of postemployment benefits, certain assumptions are established annually to reflect market conditions and plan experience to appropriately reflect the expected costs as actuarially determined.  These assumptions include medical inflation trend rates, discount rates, employee turnover and mortality rates.  The Company predominantly uses liability durations in establishing its discount rates, which are observed from indices of high-grade corporate bond yields in the respective economic regions of the plans.  The expected return on plan assets is the weighted average long-term expected return based upon asset allocations and historic average returns for the markets where the assets are invested, principally in foreign locations.  The Company reports the funded status of its defined benefit pension and other postemployment benefit plans on its consolidated balance sheets as a net liability or asset.  Additional information related to the impact of changes in these assumptions is provided in Note 15, Benefit Plans.
	Accruals for Self-Insured Losses
	The Company maintains insurance for certain risks, including workers’ compensation, general liability, product liability and vehicle liability, and is self-insured for employee related healthcare benefits.  The Company accrues for the expected costs associated with these risks by considering historical claims experience, demographic factors, severity factors and other relevant information.  Costs are recognized in the period the claim is incurred, and the financial statement accruals include an estimate of claims incurred but not yet reported.  The Company has stop-loss coverage to limit its exposure to any significant exposure on a per claim basis.
	Litigation
	The Company and its subsidiaries are from time to time parties to lawsuits arising out of their respective operations. The Company records liabilities when a loss is probable and can be reasonably estimated. These estimates are typically in the form of ranges, and the Company records the liabilities at the low point of the ranges, when no other point within the ranges are a better estimate of the probable loss. The ranges established by management are based on analysis made by internal and external legal counsel who considers information known at the time. If the Company determines a liability to be only reasonably possible, it considers the same information to estimate the possible exposure and discloses any material potential liability. These loss contingencies are monitored regularly for a change in fact or circumstance that would require an accrual adjustment. The Company believes it has estimated liabilities for probable losses appropriately in the past; however, the unpredictability of litigation and court decisions could cause a liability to be incurred in excess of estimates. Legal costs related to these lawsuits are expensed as incurred.
	Foreign Currency Translation
	The functional currency for foreign operations, except for those in highly inflationary economies, generally has been determined to be the local currency.
	Assets and liabilities of foreign subsidiaries are translated at foreign exchange rates on the balance sheet date; revenue and expenses are translated at the average year-to-date foreign exchange rates. The effects of these translation adjustments are reported in Equity within AOCI of the consolidated balance sheets. During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company had gains of $14.5 million on its loans designated as hedges of net investments and translation gains of $72.2 million. During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company had gains of $10.1 million on its loans designated as hedges of net investments and translation gains of $83.3 million.
	Foreign exchange gains and losses arising from transactions denominated in a currency other than the functional currency of the entity involved and remeasurement adjustments in countries with highly inflationary economies are included in income. Net foreign exchange transaction losses of $9.0 million, $2.7 million and $1.7 million in 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively, are included in “Other expense (income), net” on the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
	Revenue Recognition
	Revenue, net of related discounts and allowances, is recognized when the earnings process is complete. This occurs when products are shipped to or received by the customer in accordance with the terms of the agreement, title and risk of loss have been transferred, collectability is reasonably assured and pricing is fixed or determinable. Net sales include shipping and handling costs collected from customers in connection with the sale. Sales taxes, value added taxes and other similar types of taxes collected from customers in connection with the sale are recorded by the Company on a net basis and are not included in the consolidated statement of operations.
	Certain of the Company’s customers are offered cash rebates based on targeted sales increases. Estimates of rebates are based on the forecasted performance of the customer and their expected level of achievement within the rebate programs. In accounting for these rebate programs, the Company records an accrual as a reduction of net sales as sales take place over the period the rebate is earned. The Company revises the accruals for these rebate programs as actual results and revised forecasts impact the estimated achievement for customers within the rebate programs.
	A portion of the Company’s net sales is comprised of sales of precious metals generated through its precious metal dental alloy product offerings. As the precious metal content of the Company’s sales is largely a pass-through to customers, the Company uses its cost of precious metal purchased as a proxy for the precious metal content of sales, as the precious metal content of sales is not separately tracked and invoiced to customers. The Company believes that it is reasonable to use the cost of precious metal content purchased in this manner since precious metal alloy sale prices are typically adjusted when the prices of underlying precious metals change. The precious metals content of sales was $179.1 million, $213.7 million and $205.1 million for 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
	Cost of Products Sold
	Cost of products sold represents costs directly related to the manufacture and distribution of the Company’s products. Primary costs include raw materials, packaging, direct labor, overhead, shipping and handling, warehousing and the depreciation of manufacturing, warehousing and distribution facilities. Overhead and related expenses include salaries, wages, employee benefits, utilities, lease costs, maintenance and property taxes.
	Warranties
	The Company provides warranties on certain equipment products. Estimated warranty costs are accrued when sales are made to customers. Estimates for warranty costs are based primarily on historical warranty claim experience. Warranty costs are included in “Cost of products sold” in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
	Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
	Selling, general and administrative expenses represent costs incurred in generating revenues and in managing the business of the Company. Such costs include advertising and other marketing expenses, salaries, employee benefits, incentive compensation, research and development, travel, office expenses, lease costs, amortization of capitalized software and depreciation of administrative facilities.
	Research and Development Costs
	Research and development (“R&D”) costs relate primarily to internal costs for salaries and direct overhead expenses. In addition, the Company contracts with outside vendors to conduct R&D activities. All such R&D costs are charged to expense when incurred. The Company capitalizes the costs of equipment that have general R&D uses and expenses such equipment that is solely for specific R&D projects. The depreciation expense related to this capitalized equipment is included in the Company’s R&D costs. R&D costs are included in “Selling, general and administrative expenses” in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and amounted to $85.1 million, $85.4 million and $66.7 million for 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
	Stock Compensation
	The Company recognizes the compensation cost relating to share-based payment transactions in the financial statements. The cost of share-based payment transactions is measured at the grant date, based on the calculated fair value of the award, and is recognized as an expense over the employee’s requisite service period (generally the vesting period of the equity awards). The compensation cost is only recognized for the portion of the awards that are expected to vest.
	Income Taxes
The Company’s tax expense includes U.S. and international income taxes plus the provision for U.S. taxes on undistributed earnings of international subsidiaries not deemed to be permanently invested. Tax credits and other incentives reduce tax expense in the year the credits are claimed. Certain items of income and expense are not reported in tax returns and financial statements in the same year. The tax effect of such temporary differences is reported as deferred income taxes. Deferred tax assets are recognized if it is more likely than not that the assets will be realized in future years. The Company establishes a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets for which realization is not likely.
The Company applies a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. The Company recognizes in the financial statements, the impact of a tax position, if that position is more likely than not of being sustained on audit, based on the technical merits of the position.
Earnings Per Share
Basic earnings per share are calculated by dividing net earnings by the weighted average number of shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per share is calculated by dividing net earnings by the weighted average number of shares outstanding for the period, adjusted for the effect of an assumed exercise of all dilutive options outstanding at the end of the period.
Business Acquisitions
The Company acquires businesses as well as partial interests in businesses. Acquired businesses are accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting which requires the Company to record assets acquired and liabilities assumed at their respective fair values with the excess of the purchase price over estimated fair values recorded as goodwill. The assumptions made in determining the fair value of acquired assets and assumed liabilities as well as asset lives can materially impact the results of operations.
The Company obtains information during due diligence and through other sources to establish respective fair values. Examples of factors and information that the Company uses to determine the fair values include: tangible and intangible asset evaluations and appraisals; evaluations of existing contingencies and liabilities and product line information. If the initial valuation for an acquisition is incomplete by the end of the quarter in which the acquisition occurred, the Company will record a provisional estimate in the financial statements. The provisional estimate will be finalized as soon as information becomes available but will only occur up to one year from the acquisition date.
Equity Method Investments
Investments in partnerships, joint ventures and less-than-majority-owned subsidiaries in which the Company has significant influence are accounted for under the equity method.
Equity investments are carried at original cost adjusted for the proportionate share of the investees’ income, losses and distributions. The Company assesses the carrying value of its equity investments when an indicator of a loss in value is present and records a loss in value of the investment when the assessment indicates that an other-than-temporary decline in the investment exists.
The Company classifies its equity in net earnings of unconsolidated affiliates in the Consolidated Statements of Operations under the title of “Equity in net income (loss) of unconsolidated affiliated company.”
Noncontrolling Interests
The Company reports noncontrolling interest (“NCI”) in a subsidiary as a separate component of Equity in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Additionally, the Company reports the portion of net income and comprehensive income (loss) attributed to the Company and NCI separately in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. The Company also includes a separate column for NCI in the Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity.
Variable Interest Entities
The Company consolidates all VIE where the Company has determined that it has the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance and shares in either the significant risks or rewards of the VIE. The Company continually reassesses VIE to determine if consolidation is appropriate. The Company continues to believe that it is the primary beneficiary of one entity under this accounting guidance.
Segment Reporting
The Company has numerous operating businesses covering a wide range of products and geographic regions, primarily serving the professional dental market and to a lesser extent the consumable medical device market. Professional dental products represented approximately 88%, 89%, and 93% of sales in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The Company has four reportable segments and a description of the activities of these segments is included in Note 5, Segment and Geographic Information.
During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company realigned certain implant and implant related businesses as a result of changes to the business structure. These changes also helped the Company gain operating efficiencies and effectiveness. The segment information reflects the revised structure for all periods shown.
Fair Value Measurement
Recurring Basis
The Company records certain financial assets and liabilities at fair value in accordance with the accounting guidance, which defines fair value as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. The accounting guidance establishes a hierarchal disclosure framework associated with the level of pricing observability utilized in measuring financial instruments at fair value. The three broad levels defined by the fair value hierarchy are as follows:
Level 1 - Quoted prices are available in active markets for identical assets or liabilities as of the reported date.
Level 2 - Pricing inputs are other than quoted prices in active markets, which are either directly or indirectly observable reported date. The nature of these financial instruments include, derivative instruments whose fair value have been derived using a model where inputs to the model are directly observable in the market, or can be derived principally from, or corroborated by observable market data.
Level 3 - Instruments that have little to no pricing observability as of the reported date. These financial instruments do not have two-way markets and are measured using management’s best estimate of fair value, where the inputs into the determination of fair value require significant management judgment or estimation.
The degree of judgment utilized in measuring the fair value of certain financial assets and liabilities generally correlates to the level of pricing observability. Pricing observability is impacted by a number of factors, including the type of financial instrument. Financial assets and liabilities with readily available active quoted prices or for which fair value can be measured from actively quoted prices generally will have a higher degree of pricing observability and a lesser degree of judgment utilized in measuring fair value. Conversely, financial assets and liabilities rarely traded or not quoted will generally have less, or no pricing observability and a higher degree of judgment utilized in measuring fair value.
The Company primarily applies the market approach for recurring fair value measurements and endeavors to utilize the best available information. Accordingly, the Company utilizes valuation techniques that maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. Additionally, the Company considers its credit risks and its counterparties’ credit risks when determining the fair values of its financial assets and liabilities. The Company has presented the required disclosures in Note 18, Fair Value Measurement.
Non-Recurring Basis
When events or circumstances require an asset or liability to be fair valued that otherwise is generally recorded based on another valuation method, such as, net realizable value, the Company will utilize the valuation techniques described above.
Reclassification of Prior Year Amounts
Certain reclassifications have been made to prior years’ data in order to conform to current year presentation.
New Accounting Pronouncements
In December 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2011-11, “Balance Sheet (Topic 210): Disclosures about Offsetting Assets and Liabilities.” The standard requires entities to disclose both gross and net information about instruments and transactions that are offset in the Consolidated Balance Sheet, as well as instruments and transactions that are subject to an enforceable master netting agreement or similar agreement. In January 2013, The FASB issued ASU No. 2013-01, “Balance Sheet (Topic 210): Clarifying the Scope of Disclosures about Offsetting Assets and Liabilities.” The standard clarifies the scope of the disclosure to apply only to derivatives, including bifurcated embedded derivatives, repurchase and reverse repurchase agreements as well as securities lending and borrowing transactions. The standard was effective January 1, 2013, with retrospective application required. The adoption of this standard did not have a material impact to the Company’s financial statements. The Company adopted this accounting standard during the quarter ended March 31, 2013.
In July 2012, the FASB issued ASU No. 2012-02, “Intangibles - Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Testing Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets for Impairment.” This newly issued accounting standard is intended to reduce the cost and complexity of the annual indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment test by providing entities an option to perform a qualitative assessment to determine whether further impairment testing is necessary. Under the revised standard, an entity has the option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to perform the current two-step impairment test. If an entity believes, as a result of its qualitative assessment, that it is more-likely-than-not that an indefinite-lived intangible asset is less than its carrying amount, the quantitative impairment test is required; otherwise, no further testing is required. Prior to the issuance of the revised standard, an entity was required to perform step one of the impairment test at least annually by calculating and comparing the fair value of an indefinite-lived intangible asset to its carrying amount. Under the revised standard, if an entity determines that step one is necessary and the indefinite-lived intangible asset is less than its carrying amount, then step two of the test will continue to be required to measure the amount of the impairment loss, if any. This ASU is effective for annual and interim indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment tests performed for fiscal years beginning after September 15, 2012. The adoption of this standard did not materially impact the Company’s financial position or results of operations. The Company adopted this accounting standard during the quarter ended March 31, 2013.
In February 2013, the FASB issued ASU No. 2013-02, “Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reporting of Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income.” This newly issued accounting standard requires an entity to present, either on the face of the statement where net income is presented or in the notes, significant amounts reclassified out of AOCI by the respective line items of net income in its entirety in the same period. For other amounts not required to be reclassified to net income in the same reporting period, a cross reference to other disclosures that provide additional detail about the reclassification amounts is required. Since the standard only impacts the disclosure requirements of AOCI and does not impact the accounting for accumulated comprehensive income, the standard did not have an impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. The Company adopted this accounting standard during the quarter ended March 31, 2013.
In March 2013, the FASB issued ASU No. 2013-05, “Foreign Currency Matters (Topic 830): Parent’s Accounting for the Cumulative Translation Adjustment upon Derecognition of Certain Subsidiaries or Groups of Assets within a Foreign Entity or of an Investment in a Foreign Entity.” This newly issued accounting standard requires a cumulative translation adjustment (“CTA”) attached to the parent’s investment in a foreign entity should be released in a manner consistent with the derecognition guidance on investment entities. Thus the entire amount of CTA associated with the foreign entity would be released when there has been a sale of a subsidiary or group of net assets within a foreign entity and the sale represents a complete liquidation of the investment in the foreign entity, a loss of a controlling financial interest in an investment in a foreign entity, or step acquisition for a foreign entity. The adoption of this standard is not expected to materially impact the Company’s financial position or results of operations. The Company expects to adopt this accounting standard for the quarter ending March 31, 2014.
In July 2013, the FASB issued ASU No. 2013-11, “Income Taxes (Topic 740): Presentation of a Unrecognized Tax Benefit when a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists.” The newly issued accounting standard requires the netting of unrecognized tax benefits against a deferred tax asset for a loss or other carryforward that would apply in settlement of the uncertain tax positions. Under the new standard, unrecognized tax benefits will be netted against all available same-jurisdiction losses or other tax carryforwards that would be utilized, rather than only against carryforwards that are created by the unrecognized tax benefit. The adoption of this standard is not expected to materially impact the Company’s financial position or results of operations. The Company expects to adopt this accounting standard for the quarter ending March 31, 2014.

EARNINGS_PER_COMMON_SHARE

EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE	'
	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		Shares	Earnings per
		attributable to			common share
		DENTSPLY
		International
	Year Ended December 31, 2013
	Basic	$	313,192	142,663	$	2.2
	Incremental shares from assumed exercise of dilutive options			2,302
	Diluted	$	313,192	144,965	$	2.16
	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	$	1.7
	Options to purchase 2.3 million, 4.1 million and 3.2 million shares of common stock that were outstanding during the years ended 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively, were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per common share since the options’ exercise prices were greater than the average market price of the common shares and, therefore, the effect would be antidilutive.

COMPREHENSIVE_INCOME_Notes

COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME [Abstract]	'
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Note [Text Block]	'
	COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
	AOCI includes foreign currency translation adjustments related to the Company’s foreign subsidiaries, net of the related changes in certain financial instruments hedging these foreign currency investments. In addition, changes in the Company’s fair value of certain derivative financial instruments, net unrealized holding gain on available-for-sale securities and pension liability adjustments and prior service costs, net are recorded in AOCI. These changes are recorded in AOCI net of any related tax adjustments. For the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, these tax adjustments were $205.1 million, $185.6 million and $167.5 million, respectively, primarily related to foreign currency translation adjustments.
	The cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments included translation gains of $249.9 million and $177.7 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and were offset by losses of $108.9 million and $123.4 million, respectively, on loans designated as hedges of net investments.
	Changes in AOCI, net of tax, by component for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011:
	(in thousands)	Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments				Gains and (Loss) on Derivative Financial Instruments				Net Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Available-for-Sale Securities				Pension Liability Adjustments			Total
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	54,302			$	(143,142	)		$	17,822			$	(73,182	)	$	(144,200	)
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	86,690				(31,687		)		(5,093		)		19,478			69,388
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	—				1,962				—				3,788			5,750
	Net increase (decrease) in other comprehensive income	86,690				(29,725		)		(5,093		)		23,266			75,138
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	140,992			$	(172,867	)		$	12,729			$	(49,916	)	$	(69,062	)
	(in thousands)	Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments				Gains and (Loss) on Derivative Financial Instruments				Net Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Available-for-Sale Securities				Pension Liability Adjustments			Total
	Balance at December 31, 2011	$	(39,078	)		$	(117,390	)		$	(516	)		$	(33,986	)	$	(190,970	)
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	93,380				(20,903		)		18,338				(40,474		)	50,341
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	—				(4,849		)		—				1,278			(3,571		)
	Net increase (decrease) in other comprehensive income	93,380				(25,752		)		18,338				(39,196		)	46,770
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	54,302			$	(143,142	)		$	17,822			$	(73,182	)	$	(144,200	)
	Reclassification out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011:
	(in thousands)
	Details about AOCI Components		Amounts Reclassified from AOCI											Affected Line Item in the
			Year Ended December, 31											Statements of Operations
			2013				2012				2011
	Gains and (loss) on derivative financial instruments:
	Interest rate swaps		$	(3,681	)		$	(3,611	)		$	(4,903	)	Interest expense
	Foreign exchange forward contracts		1,184				8,029				1,503			Cost of products sold
	Foreign exchange forward contracts		(147		)		779				39			SG&A expenses
	Commodity contracts		(288		)		136				273			Cost of products sold
			(2,932		)		5,333				(3,088		)	Net (loss) gain before tax
			970				(484		)		644			Tax benefit (expense)
			$	(1,962	)		$	4,849			$	(2,444	)	Net of tax
	Amortization of defined benefit pension and other postemployment benefit items:
	Amortization of prior service benefits		$	141			$	138			$	80		(a)
	Amortization of net actuarial losses		(5,532		)		(1,956		)		(1,773		)	(a)
			(5,391		)		(1,818		)		(1,693		)	Net loss before tax
			1,603				540				526			Tax benefit
			$	(3,788	)		$	(1,278	)		$	(1,167	)	Net of tax
	Total reclassifications for the period		$	(5,750	)		$	3,571			$	(3,611	)
	(a) These accumulated other comprehensive income components are included in the computation of net periodic benefit cost for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively (see Note 15, Benefit Plans, for additional details).

BUSINESS_ACQUISITIONS_AND_INVE

BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS AND INVESTMENTS IN AFFILIATES	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Notes to Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS AND INVESTMENTS IN AFFILIATES	'
	BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS AND INVESTMENTS IN AFFILIATES
	Business Acquisitions
	2013 Acquisitions
	In November 2013, the Company purchased a Hong Kong-based direct dental selling organization and certain assets of a professional dental consumable New Zealand-based manufacturer. Total purchase price related to these two acquisitions was $62.3 million subject to final purchase price adjustments. At December 31, 2013, the Company recorded a preliminary estimate of $52.9 million in goodwill related to the difference between the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed and the consideration given for the acquisitions. The results of operations for these business have been included in the accompanying financial statements as of the effective date of the respective transactions. The purchase prices have been assigned on the basis of preliminary estimates of the fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed. These transactions were immaterial to the Company’s net sales and net income attributable to DENTSPLY. The Company expects to finalize the fair value of identifiable assets and liabilities assumed during 2014.
	Additionally during the year, the Company paid $9.0 million to purchase the remaining outstanding shares of a consolidated subsidiary. As a result of the transaction, the Company recorded a decrease in noncontrolling interest of $5.0 million and a reduction to additional paid in capital of $3.9 million for the excess of the purchase price above the carrying value of the noncontrolling interest.
	2012 Acquisitions
	The acquisition related activity for the year ended December 31, 2012 was $7.4 million, which was related to one acquisition and one earn-out payment for a prior period acquisition. The results of operations for this acquisition have been included in the accompanying financial statements as of the effective date of the respective transactions. This transaction was immaterial to the Company’s net sales and net income attributable to DENTSPLY.
	2011 Acquisition of Astra Tech
	On August 31, 2011, the Company acquired 100% of the outstanding common shares of Astra Tech using the available cash on hand and debt financing. Astra Tech is a leading developer, manufacturer and marketer of dental implants, customized implant abutments and consumable medical devices in the urology and surgery market segments. The Astra Tech acquisition was recorded in accordance with the business combinations provisions of US GAAP.
	Astra Tech contributed net sales of $207.1 million and an operating loss of $18.5 million to the Company’s consolidated statements of operations during the period from September 1, 2011 to December 31, 2011 and is included in the Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim segment.
	The following unaudited pro forma financial information reflects the consolidated results of operations of the Company had the Astra Tech acquisition occurred on January 1, 2011. These amounts were calculated after conversion to US GAAP, applying the Company’s accounting policies and adjusting Astra Tech’s results to reflect the additional depreciation and amortization that would have been charged assuming the fair value adjustments to property, plant and equipment, inventory and intangible assets had been applied from January 1, 2011, together with the consequential tax effects at the statutory rate. These adjustments also reflect the additional interest expense incurred on the debt to finance the acquisition.
	(in thousands, except per share data)	Year Ended December 31,
		2011
	Net Sales	$	2,918,347
	Net income attributable to DENTSPLY	250,363
	Diluted earnings per common share	$	1.74
	The pro forma financial information is based on the Company’s final assignment of purchase price of the fair value of identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed. The Astra Tech financial information has been compiled in a manner consistent with the accounting policies adopted by DENTSPLY. Pro forma results do not include any anticipated synergies or other anticipated benefits of the acquisition. Accordingly, the unaudited pro forma financial information is not necessarily indicative of either future results of operations or results that might have been achieved had the acquisition occurred on January 1, 2011.
	Investment in Affiliates
	On December 9, 2010, the Company purchased an initial ownership interest of 17% of the outstanding shares of DIO Corporation (“DIO”). The Company accounts for the ownership in DIO under the equity method of accounting as it has significant influence over DIO. In addition, on December 9, 2010, the Company invested $49.7 million in the corporate convertible bonds of DIO, which may be converted into common shares at any time. The contractual maturity of the bonds are in December 2015. The bonds are designated by the Company as available-for-sale securities which are reported in, “Other noncurrent assets, net,” on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and the changes in fair value are reported in AOCI. The convertible feature of the bonds has not been bifurcated from the underlying bonds as the feature does not contain a net-settlement feature, nor would the Company be able to achieve a hypothetical net-settlement that would substantially place the Company in a comparable cash settlement position. As such, the derivative is not accounted for separately from the bonds. The cash paid by the Company is equal to the face value of the bonds issued by DIO, and therefore, the Company has not recorded any bond premium or discount on acquiring the bonds. The fair value of the DIO bonds was $70.0 million and $75.1 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. For the year ended December 31, 2013, an unrealized holding loss of $5.1 million on available-for-sale securities, net of tax, had been recorded in AOCI. For the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, an unrealized holding gain of $18.3 million and an unrealized holding loss of $11.5 million, respectively, were recorded on available-for-sale securities, net of tax, in AOCI.

SEGMENT_AND_GEOGRAPHIC_INFORMA

SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION	'
	SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION
	The businesses are combined into operating groups, which have overlapping product offerings, geographical presence, customer bases, distribution channels and regulatory oversight. These operating groups are considered the Company’s reportable segments as the Company’s chief operating decision-maker regularly reviews financial results at the operating group level and uses this information to manage the Company’s operations. The accounting policies of the segments are consistent with those described for the consolidated financial statements in the summary of significant accounting policies (see Note 1, Significant Accounting Policies). The Company measures segment income for reporting purposes as net operating income before restructuring, impairments, and other costs, interest and taxes. Additionally, the operating groups are measured on net third party sales, excluding precious metal content. A description of the products and services provided within each of the Company’s four reportable segments is provided below.
	During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company realigned certain implant and implant related businesses as result of changes to the business structure. These changes also helped the Company gain operating efficiencies and effectiveness. The segment information below reflects the revised structure for all periods shown.
	Dental Consumable and Laboratory Businesses
	This segment includes responsibility for the design, manufacturing, sales and distribution of certain small equipment and chairside consumable products in the United States, Germany and certain other European regions.  It also has responsibility for the sales and distribution of certain Endodontic products in Germany. This segment also includes the responsibility for the design, manufacture, sales and distribution of most dental laboratory products, excluding certain countries. This segment is also responsible for most of the Company’s non-dental business excluding medical products.
	Orthodontics/Canada/Mexico/Japan
	This segment is responsible for the world-wide manufacturing, sales and distribution of the Company’s Orthodontic products. It also has responsibility for the sales and distribution of most of the Company’s dental products sold in Japan, Canada and Mexico.
	Select Distribution Businesses
	This segment includes responsibility for the sales and distribution for most of the Company’s dental products sold in France, United Kingdom, Italy, Austria and certain other European countries, Middle Eastern countries, India and Africa. Operating margins of the segment are reflective of the intercompany transfer price of products manufactured by other operating segments.
	Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim
	This segment includes the responsibility for the design, manufacture, sales and distribution of most of the Company’s dental implant and related products. This segment also includes the responsibility for the design and manufacturing of Endodontic products and is responsible for the sales and distribution of the Company’s Endodontic products in the United States, Switzerland, and locations not covered by other selling divisions.  In addition, this business group is also responsible for sales and distribution of certain Endodontic products in Germany, Asia and other parts of the world. Additionally, this segment is responsible for the design and manufacture of certain dental consumables and dental laboratory products and the sales and distribution of most dental products sold in Brazil, Latin America (excluding Mexico), Australia and most of Asia (excluding India and Japan). This segment is also responsible for the world-wide design, manufacturing, sales and distribution of the Company’s medical products (non-dental) throughout most of the world.
	Significant interdependencies exist among the Company’s operations in certain geographic areas. Inter-group sales are at prices intended to provide a reasonable profit to the manufacturing unit after recovery of all manufacturing costs and to provide a reasonable profit for purchasing locations after coverage of marketing and general and administrative costs.
	Generally, the Company evaluates performance of the segments based on the groups’ operating income, excluding restructuring and other costs, and net third party sales, excluding precious metal content.
	The following table sets forth information about the Company’s segments for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011.
	Third Party Net Sales
	(in thousands)	2013			2012			2011
	Dental Consumable and Laboratory Businesses	$	991,694		$	993,624		$	992,406
	Orthodontics/Canada/Mexico/Japan	307,160			320,614			309,143
	Select Distribution Businesses	267,949			252,632			253,421
	Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim	1,388,152			1,365,231			987,778
	All Other (a)	(4,185		)	(3,672		)	(5,030		)
	Total net sales	$	2,950,770		$	2,928,429		$	2,537,718
	(a)	Includes amounts recorded at Corporate headquarters.
	Third Party Net Sales, Excluding Precious Metal Content
	(in thousands)	2013			2012			2011
	Dental Consumable and Laboratory Businesses	$	842,736		$	816,281		$	824,341
	Orthodontics/Canada/Mexico/Japan	278,994			286,680			276,228
	Select Distribution Businesses	267,300			252,064			252,539
	Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim	1,386,883			1,363,344			984,509
	All Other (b)	(4,185		)	(3,671		)	(5,030		)
	Total net sales, excluding precious metal content	$	2,771,728		$	2,714,698		$	2,332,587
	Precious metal content of sales	179,042			213,731			205,131
	Total net sales, including precious metal content	$	2,950,770		$	2,928,429		$	2,537,718
	(b)	Includes amounts recorded at Corporate headquarters.
	Intersegment Net Sales
	(in thousands)	2013			2012			2011
	Dental Consumable and Laboratory Businesses	$	172,827		$	173,194		$	167,621
	Orthodontics/Canada/Mexico/Japan	3,913			4,000			4,065
	Select Distribution Businesses	2,129			1,534			1,549
	Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim	143,455			139,460			158,724
	All Other (c)	243,127			221,867			211,658
	Eliminations	(565,451		)	(540,055		)	(543,617		)
	Total	$	—		$	—		$	—
	(c)	Includes amounts recorded at Corporate headquarters and one distribution warehouse not managed by named segments.
	Depreciation and Amortization
	(in thousands)	2013			2012			2011
	Dental Consumable and Laboratory Businesses	$	31,137		$	33,855		$	34,575
	Orthodontics/Canada/Mexico/Japan	3,716			4,959			4,432
	Select Distribution Businesses	931			964			875
	Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim	90,175			86,900			42,546
	All Other (d)	1,944			2,521			2,607
	Total	$	127,903		$	129,199		$	85,035
	(d)	Includes amounts recorded at Corporate headquarters.
	Segment Operating Income (Loss)
	(in thousands)	2013			2012			2011
	Dental Consumable and Laboratory Businesses	$	229,566		$	223,702		$	209,353
	Orthodontics/Canada/Mexico/Japan	13,946			14,104			12,998
	Select Distribution Businesses	(1,005		)	(4,191		)	(1,358		)
	Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim	295,419			292,991			218,396
	All Other (e)	(105,404		)	(118,950		)	(102,796		)
	Segment Operating Income	$	432,522		$	407,656		$	336,593
	Reconciling Items:
	Restructuring and other costs	13,356			25,717			35,865
Interest expense	49,625			56,851			43,814
Interest income	(8,123		)	(8,760		)	(8,237		)
Other expense (income), net	8,329			3,169			9,040
Income before income taxes	$	369,335		$	330,679		$	256,111
(e)	Includes results of Corporate headquarters, inter-segment eliminations and one distribution warehouse not managed by named segments. Amount recorded in 2011 includes $31.9 million of Astra Tech acquisition costs.
Capital Expenditures
(in thousands)	2013			2012			2011
Dental Consumable and Laboratory Businesses	$	21,122		$	18,957		$	20,693
Orthodontics/Canada/Mexico/Japan	14,423			9,071			7,494
Select Distribution Businesses	1,377			657			1,123
Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim	58,104			58,372			32,958
All Other (f)	5,319			5,015			8,918
Total	$	100,345		$	92,072		$	71,186
(f)	Includes capital expenditures of Corporate headquarters.
Assets
(in thousands)	2013			2012
Dental Consumable and Laboratory Businesses	$	961,989		$	1,007,307
Orthodontics/Canada/Mexico/Japan	308,393			294,348
Select Distribution Businesses	166,679			192,684
Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim	3,450,670			3,195,382
All Other (g)	190,316			282,576
Total	$	5,078,047		$	4,972,297
(g)	Includes assets of Corporate headquarters, inter-segment eliminations and one distribution warehouse not managed by named segments.
Geographic Information
The following table sets forth information about the Company’s operations in different geographic areas for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011. Net sales reported below represent revenues for shipments made by operating businesses located in the country or territory identified, including export sales. Property, plant and equipment, net, represents those long-lived assets held by the operating businesses located in the respective geographic areas.
(in thousands)	United			Germany			Sweden			Other		Consolidated
	States									Foreign
2013
Net sales	$	1,011,646		$	559,109		$	57,504		$	1,322,511	$	2,950,770
Property, plant and equipment, net	158,673			129,685			134,083			214,731		637,172
2012
Net sales	$	993,980		$	546,092		$	54,507		$	1,333,850	$	2,928,429
Property, plant and equipment, net	148,950			122,310			133,502			209,943		614,705
2011
Net sales	$	875,471		$	515,819		$	20,383		$	1,126,045	$	2,537,718
Property, plant and equipment, net	137,871			118,229			150,167			185,178		591,445
Product and Customer Information
The following table presents net sales information by product category:
	December 31,
(in thousands)	2013			2012			2011
Dental consumables products	$	777,935		$	768,098		$	766,385
Dental laboratory products	472,080			511,850			515,491
Dental specialty products	1,347,417			1,313,035			1,087,551
Consumable medical device products	353,338			335,446			168,291
Total net sales	$	2,950,770		$	2,928,429		$	2,537,718
Dental consumable products consist of value added dental supplies and small equipment products used in dental offices for the treatment of patients. DENTSPLY’s products in this category include dental anesthetics, infection control products, prophylaxis paste, dental sealants, impression materials, restorative materials, bone grafting materials, tooth whiteners and topical fluoride. The Company manufactures thousands of different consumable products marketed under more than a hundred brand names. Small equipment products consist of various durable goods used in dental offices for treatment of patients. DENTSPLY’s small equipment products include dental handpieces, intraoral curing light systems and ultrasonic scalers and polishers.
Dental laboratory products are used in dental laboratories in the preparation of dental appliances. DENTSPLY’s products in this category include dental prosthetics, including artificial teeth, precious metal dental alloys, dental ceramics, crown and bridge materials, and equipment products used in laboratories consisting of computer aided design and machining (CAD/CAM) ceramic systems and porcelain furnaces.
Dental specialty products are specialized treatment products used within the dental office and laboratory settings. DENTSPLY’s products in this category include endodontic (root canal) instruments and materials, implants and related products, bone grafting material, 3D digital scanning and treatment planning software, dental lasers and orthodontic appliances and accessories.
Consumable medical device products consist mainly of urology catheters, certain surgical products, medical drills and other non-medical products.
Both in 2013 and 2012, the Company did not have any single customer that represented ten percent or more of DENTSPLY’s consolidated net sales. In 2011, one customer, Henry Schein Incorporated, accounted for 11% of DENTSPLY’s consolidated net sales. Third party export sales from the U.S. are less than ten percent of consolidated net sales.

OTHER_EXPENSE_INCOME_NET

OTHER EXPENSE (INCOME), NET	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
OTHER EXPENSE (INCOME), NET	'
	OTHER EXPENSE (INCOME), NET
	Other expense (income), net, consists of the following:
		December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013			2012		2011
	Foreign exchange transaction losses	$	8,982		$	2,679	$	1,713
	Other (income) expense, net	(653		)	490		7,327
	Total other expense (income), net	$	8,329		$	3,169	$	9,040
	Foreign exchange transaction losses for the year ending December 31, 2013 and 2012, included approximately $6.9 million of interest and fair value adjustments and $1.3 million of interest on non-designated hedges, respectively. Other expense (income), net in the 2011 period included approximately $2.9 million of interest rate swap terminations, $3.8 million of Treasury rate lock ineffectiveness, and $0.6 million of other non-operating expenses.

INVENTORIES_NET

INVENTORIES, NET	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
INVENTORIES, NET	'
	INVENTORIES, NET
	Inventories, net, consist of the following:
		December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013		2012
	Finished goods	$	285,271	$	248,870
	Work-in-process	67,718		72,533
	Raw materials and supplies	85,570		81,537
	Inventories, net	$	438,559	$	402,940
	The Company’s inventory valuation reserve was $34.2 million and $32.6 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

PROPERTY_PLANT_AND_EQUIPMENT_N

PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, NET	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, NET	'
	PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, NET
	Property, plant and equipment, net, consist of the following:
		December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013		2012
	Assets, at cost:
	Land	$	47,616	$	45,561
	Buildings and improvements	427,826		409,451
	Machinery and equipment	907,541		848,331
	Construction in progress	59,583		50,647
		1,442,566		1,353,990
	Less: Accumulated depreciation	805,394		739,285
	Property, plant and equipment, net	$	637,172	$	614,705

GOODWILL_AND_INTANGIBLE_ASSETS

GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS	'
	GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS
	The Company performed the required annual impairment tests of goodwill at April 30, 2013 on thirteen reporting units. To determine the fair value of the Company’s reporting units, the Company uses a discounted cash flow model with market-based support as its valuation technique to measure the fair value for its reporting units. The discounted cash flow model uses five-year forecasted cash flows plus a terminal value based on a multiple of earnings. In addition, the Company applies gross margin and operating expense assumptions consistent with historical trends. The total cash flows were discounted based on a range between 8.4% to 11.5%, which included assumptions regarding the Company’s weighted-average cost of capital. The Company considered the current market conditions both in the U.S. and globally, when determining its assumptions. Lastly, the Company reconciled the aggregated fair values of its reporting units to its market capitalization, which included a reasonable control premium based on market conditions. As a result of the annual impairment tests of goodwill, no impairment was identified.
	Impairments of identifiable definite-lived and indefinite-lived intangible assets for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 were $2.0 million, $5.2 million and $1.5 million, respectively, and are included in “Restructuring and other costs” on the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
	A reconciliation of changes in the Company’s goodwill by segment and in total are as follows:
	(in thousands)	Dental Consumable and Laboratory Businesses			Orthodontics/Canada/Mexico/Japan			Select Distribution Businesses			Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim		Total
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	488,206		$	102,065		$	92,473		$	1,528,209	$	2,210,953
	Acquisition activity	42,998			—			—			9,901		52,899
	Business unit transfers	(111,766		)	(4,365		)	(29,510		)	145,641		—
	Additional consideration for post closing adjustments	—			—			—			610		610
	Effect of exchange rate changes	1,844			(2,531		)	3,571			14,250		17,134
	Balance, at December 31, 2013	$	421,282		$	95,169		$	66,534		$	1,698,611	$	2,281,596
	During 2013, the Company transferred goodwill from other reporting units to the Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim segment due to changes in reporting units resulting from the integration of the implant businesses. Affected reporting units were tested for potential impairment of goodwill before and after the transfers. No impairment was identified.
	Identifiable definite-lived and indefinite-lived intangible assets consist of the following:
		December 31, 2013									December 31, 2012
	(in thousands)	Gross			Accumulated			Net			Gross		Accumulated			Net
		Carrying			Amortization			Carrying			Carrying		Amortization			Carrying
		Amount						Amount			Amount					Amount
	Patents	$	181,847		$	(91,736	)	$	90,111		$	179,512	$	(81,390	)	$	98,122
	Trademarks	85,922			(35,994		)	49,928			83,073		(33,129		)	49,944
	Licensing agreements	31,950			(20,992		)	10,958			30,695		(18,966		)	11,729
	Customer relationships	497,108			(82,381		)	414,727			491,859		(50,632		)	441,227
	Total definite-lived	$	796,827		$	(231,103	)	$	565,724		$	785,139	$	(184,117	)	$	601,022
	Trademarks and In-process R&D	$	229,599		$	—		$	229,599		$	229,620	$	—		$	229,620
	Total identifiable intangible assets	$	1,026,426		$	(231,103	)	$	795,323		$	1,014,759	$	(184,117	)	$	830,642
	Amortization expense for identifiable definite-lived intangible assets for 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $46.2 million, $49.7 million and $21.0 million, respectively. The annual estimated amortization expense related to these intangible assets for each of the five succeeding fiscal years is $47.7 million, $46.9 million, $46.3 million, $45.6 million and $44.3 million for 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018, respectively.

ACCRUED_LIABILITIES

ACCRUED LIABILITIES	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
ACCRUED LIABILITIES	'
	ACCRUED LIABILITIES
	Accrued liabilities consist of the following:
		December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013		2012
	Payroll, commissions, bonuses, other cash compensation and employee benefits	$	101,274	$	96,206
	General insurance	12,178		12,204
	Sales and marketing programs	38,514		32,742
	Professional and legal costs	14,855		12,202
	Restructuring costs	8,608		14,452
	Warranty liabilities	3,608		3,693
	Deferred income	4,922		5,514
	Accrued vacation and holidays	29,944		29,804
	Third party royalties	11,494		11,288
	Current portion of derivatives	54,367		144,195
	Other	59,544		62,036
	Accrued liabilities	$	339,308	$	424,336

FINANCING_ARRANGEMENTS

FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS	'
	FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS
	Short-Term Debt
	Short-term debt consisted of the following:
			December 31,
			2013				2012
			Principal		Interest		Principal		Interest
	(in thousands)		Balance		Rate		Balance		Rate
	Bank overdrafts		$	1,429	1	%	$	123	—	%
	Corporate commercial paper facility		101,900		0.3	%	45,000		0.5	%
	Brazil short-term loans		1,314		2.8	%	1,000		2	%
	Other short-term loans		563		1.8	%	1,962		3.9	%
	Add: Current portion of long-term debt		204,656				250,878
	Total short-term debt		$	309,862			$	298,963
			2013				2012
	Maximum month-end short-term debt outstanding during the year		$	417,065			$	399,931
	Average amount of short-term debt outstanding during the year		$	318,817			$	248,318
	Weighted-average interest rate on short-term debt at year-end				1.6	%			0.6	%
	Short-Term Borrowings
	The Company has a $500.0 million commercial paper facility, at December 31, 2013 and 2012 amounts outstanding were $101.9 million and $45.0 million, respectively. The Company has a $500.0 million five-year revolving credit agreement that expires in July 2016, that serves as back-up credit to this commercial paper facility. Amounts outstanding under the commercial paper facility, if any, reduce amounts available under the revolving credit agreement. Average outstanding issued commercial paper during 2013 was $98.7 million. At December 31, 2013, the Company has classified the commercial paper as short-term debt, reflecting the Company’s intent to repay over the next year.
	Long-Term Debt
	Long-term debt consisted of the following:
			December 31,
			2013				2012
			Principal		Interest		Principal		Interest
	(in thousands)		Balance		Rate		Balance		Rate
	Floating rate senior notes $250 million due August 2013		$	—	—	%	$	250,000	1.8	%
	Term loan Japanese yen denominated due September 2014		119,213		1	%	144,681		1.1	%
	Private placement notes $250 million due February 2016		252,370		4.1	%	254,560		4.1	%
	Fixed rate senior notes $300 million due August 2016		299,775		2.8	%	299,689		2.8	%
	Term loan Swiss francs denominated due September 2016		72,829		1.1	%	71,027		1.2	%
	Term loan $175 million due August 2020		175,000		1.4	%	—		—	%
	Fixed rate senior notes $450 million due August 2021		448,809		4.2	%	448,653		4.2	%
	Other borrowings, various currencies and rates		2,838				4,303
			$	1,370,834			$	1,472,913
	Less: Current portion
	(included in notes payable and current portion of long-term debt)		204,656				250,878
	Long-term portion		$	1,166,178			$	1,222,035
	The Company has a $500.0 million five-year revolving credit agreement with participation from sixteen banks, which expires in July 2016. The revolving credit agreement contains a number of covenants and two financial ratios, which the Company is required to satisfy. The most restrictive of these covenants pertain to asset dispositions and prescribed ratios of indebtedness to total capital and operating income excluding depreciation and amortization to interest expense. Any breach of any such covenants or restrictions would result in a default under the existing borrowing documentation that would permit the lenders to declare all borrowings under such documentation to be immediately due and payable and, through cross default provisions, would entitle the Company’s other lenders to accelerate their loans. At December 31, 2013, the Company was in compliance with these covenants.
	The Company repaid the two-year floating rate senior notes in August 2013. On August 26, 2013, the Company entered into a $175.0 million variable rate seven-year term loan that matures in August 2020. The term loan is pre-payable at par and has annual principal repayments of $8.8 million in each of the first six years with the balance due at maturity. The variable interest rate is reset quarterly at three-month U.S. dollar London Inter-Bank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus 1.125%.
	The Company’s current portion of long-term debt includes a $75.0 million tranche of the $250.0 million private placement note (“PPN”), $8.8 million of the $175.0 million term loan and the balance of the Japanese yen term loan.
	The term loans and PPN contain certain affirmative and negative covenants relating to the Company’s operations and financial condition. At December 31, 2013, the Company was in compliance with all debt covenants.
	At December 31, 2013, the Company had total unused lines of credit, including lines available under its short-term arrangements and revolving credit agreement, of $469.7 million.
	The table below reflects the contractual maturity dates of the various borrowings at December 31, 2013:
	(in thousands)
	2014	$	204,656
	2015	182,896
	2016	384,992
	2017	9,064
	2018	8,920
	2019 and beyond	580,306
		$	1,370,834

EQUITY

EQUITY	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
EQUITY	'
	EQUITY
	At December 31, 2013, the Company had authorization to maintain up to 34.0 million shares of treasury stock under its stock repurchase program as approved by the Board of Directors. Under its stock repurchase program, the Company purchased 2,685,796 shares and 998,356 shares during 2013 and 2012, respectively, at an average price of $43.94 and $38.90, respectively. At both December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company held 20.5 million of treasury stock shares. During 2013, the Company repurchased outstanding shares at a value of $118.0 million. The Company also received proceeds of $66.9 million primarily as a result of 2.3 million stock options exercised during the year ended December 31, 2013. During 2012, the Company repurchased outstanding shares at a value of $38.8 million. The Company also received proceeds of $34.2 million primarily as a result of 1.4 million stock options exercised during the year ended December 31, 2012. It is the Company’s practice to issue shares from treasury stock when options are exercised. The tax benefit realized for the options exercised during the year ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 is $3.0 million and $6.8 million, respectively.
	The following table represents total outstanding shares for the years ended December 31:
	(in thousands)	Common			Treasury			Outstanding
		Shares			Shares			Shares
	Balance at December 31, 2010	162,776			(21,041	)		141,735
	Shares issued	—			2,084			2,084
	Repurchase of common stock at cost	—			(2,187	)		(2,187	)
	Balance at December 31, 2011	162,776			(21,144	)		141,632
	Shares issued	—			1,688			1,688
	Repurchase of common stock at cost	—			(998	)		(998	)
	Balance at December 31, 2012	162,776			(20,454	)		142,322
	Shares issued	—			2,605			2,605
	Repurchase of common stock at cost	—			(2,686	)		(2,686	)
	Balance at December 31, 2013	162,776			(20,535	)		142,241
	The Company maintains the 2010 Equity Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) under which it may grant non-qualified stock options (“NQSO”), incentive stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units (“RSU”) and stock appreciation rights, collectively referred to as “Awards.” Awards are granted at exercise prices that are equal to the closing stock price on the date of grant. The Company authorized grants under the Plan of 13.0 million shares of common stock, plus any unexercised portion of cancelled or terminated stock options granted under the DENTSPLY International Inc. 2002 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended, subject to adjustment as follows: each January, if 7% of the total outstanding common shares of the Company exceed 13.0 million, the excess becomes available for grant under the Plan. No more than 2.5 million shares may be awarded as restricted stock and RSU, and no key employee may be granted restricted stock and RSU in excess of approximately 0.2 million shares of common stock in any calendar year. The number of shares available for grant under the 2010 Plan at December 31, 2013 is 9.4 million.
	Stock options granted become exercisable over a period of three years after the date of grant at the rate of one-third per year and generally expire ten years after the date of grant under these plans. RSU vest 100% on the third anniversary of the date of grant and are subject to a service condition, which requires grantees to remain employed by the Company during the three-year period following the date of grant. Under the terms of the RSU, the three-year period is referred to as the restricted period. RSU and the rights under the award may not be sold, assigned, transferred, donated, pledged or otherwise disposed of during the three-year restricted period prior to vesting. In addition to the service condition, certain key executives are granted RSU subject to performance requirements during the first year of the RSU award. If actual performance against the goals is not met the RSU granted is adjusted to reflect the achievement level. Upon the expiration of the applicable restricted period and the satisfaction of all conditions imposed, all restrictions imposed on RSU will lapse, and one share of common stock will be issued as payment for each vested RSU. All awards become immediately exercisable upon death, disability or qualified retirement. Awards are expensed as compensation over their respective vesting periods or to the eligible retirement date if shorter.
	The following table represents total stock based compensation expense and the tax related benefit for the years ended:
		December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013				2012				2011
	Stock option expense	$	10,554			$	11,126			$	10,369
	RSU expense	13,059				9,644				9,243
	Total stock based compensation expense	$	23,613			$	20,770			$	19,612
	Related deferred income tax benefit	$	6,057			$	5,775			$	5,021
	There were 2.1 million non-qualified stock options unvested at December 31, 2013. The remaining unamortized compensation cost related to non-qualified stock options is $10.7 million, which will be expensed over the weighted average remaining vesting period of the options, or 1.3 years. The unamortized compensation cost related to RSU is $17.7 million, which will be expensed over the remaining weighted average restricted period of the RSU, or 1.2 years.
	The Company uses the Black-Scholes option-pricing model to estimate the fair value of each option awarded. The following table sets forth the assumptions used to determine compensation cost for the Company’s NQSO issued during the years ended:
		December 31,
		2013				2012				2011
	Weighted average fair value per share	$	9.3			$	8.91			$	8.86
	Expected dividend yield	0.53		%		0.57		%		0.55		%
	Risk-free interest rate	0.87		%		0.93		%		2.35		%
	Expected volatility	25		%		26		%		24		%
	Expected life (years)	4.98				5.1				5.07
	The total intrinsic value of options exercised for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $34.3 million, $21.1 million and $27.0 million, respectively.
	The following table summarizes the NQSO transactions for the year ended December 31, 2013:
		Outstanding											Exercisable
	(in thousands, except per share amounts)	Shares			Weighted				Aggregate				Shares		Weighted				Aggregate
					Average				Intrinsic						Average				Intrinsic
					Exercise				Value						Exercise				Value
					Price										Price
	December 31, 2012	9,906			$	33.18			$	69,079			7,599		$	31.79			$	64,819
	Granted	923			40.63
	Exercised	(2,309	)		28.98
	Cancelled	(31	)		42.82
	Forfeited	(194	)		38.89
	December 31, 2013	8,295			$	35.04			$	111,450			6,225		$	33.67			$	92,200
	The weighted average remaining contractual term of all outstanding options is 5.6 years and the weighted average remaining contractual term of exercisable options is 4.7 years.
	The following table summarizes information about NQSO outstanding for the year ended December 31, 2013:
						Outstanding								Exercisable
	(in thousands, except per share amounts and life)					Number			Weighted		Weighted			Number			Weighted
						Outstanding			Average		Average			Exercisable			Average
						at			Remaining		Exercise			at			Exercise
						December 31,			Contractual		Price			December 31,			Price
	Range of								Life
	Exercise Prices					2013			(in years)					2013
	20.01		-	30		1,938			3.6		$	26.83		1,938			$	26.83
	30.01		-	40		4,622			6.2		35.51			3,408			34.64
	40.01		-	50		1,735			6.5		42.98			879			44.97
						8,295			5.6		$	35.04		6,225			$	33.67
	The following table summarizes the unvested RSU transactions for the year ended December 31, 2013:
		Unvested Restricted Stock Units
		Shares			Weighted Average
	(in thousands, except per share amounts)				Grant Date
				Fair Value
Unvested at December 31, 2012	1,034			$	36.34
Granted	506			40.92
Vested	(248	)		32.8
Forfeited	(161	)		38.82
Unvested at December 31, 2013	1,131			$	38.81

INCOME_TAXES

INCOME TAXES	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
INCOME TAXES	'
	INCOME TAXES
	The components of income before income taxes from operations are as follows:
		December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013				2012				2011
	United States	$	58,383			$	67,668			$	7,041
	Foreign	310,952				263,011				249,070
		$	369,335			$	330,679			$	256,111
	The components of the provision for income taxes from operations are as follows:
		December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013				2012				2011
	Current:
	U.S. federal	$	10,340			$	23,412			$	34,870
	U.S. state	4,660				2,788				5,151
	Foreign	66,306				69,954				59,397
	Total	$	81,306			$	96,154			$	99,418
	Deferred:
	U.S. federal	$	(28,941	)		$	(128,832	)		$	(29,664	)
	U.S. state	(1,377		)		11,730				(4,089		)
	Foreign	1,162				29,868				(54,649		)
	Total	$	(29,156	)		$	(87,234	)		$	(88,402	)
		$	52,150			$	8,920			$	11,016
	The reconciliation of the U.S. federal statutory tax rate to the effective rate for the years ended is as follows:
		December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Statutory U. S. federal income tax rate	35	%		35	%		35	%
	Effect of:
	State income taxes, net of federal benefit	0.7			0.7			0.3
	Federal benefit of R&D and foreign tax credits	(5.9	)		(7.2	)		(8.6	)
	Tax effect of international operations	(10.2	)		(7.4	)		(7.9	)
	Net effect of tax audit activity	1.9			(0.6	)		2.1
	Tax effect of enacted statutory rate changes	0.1			(3.7	)		0.2
	Federal tax on unremitted earnings of certain foreign subsidiaries	—			0.1			0.1
	Valuation allowance adjustments	(0.6	)		12			(18.1	)
	Tax effect of enacted U.S. federal legislation	(2.6	)		—			—
	Foreign outside basis differences	(1.5	)		(26.5	)		—
	Other	(2.8	)		0.3			1.2
	Effective income tax rate on operations	14.1	%		2.7	%		4.3	%
	The tax effect of significant temporary differences giving rise to deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows:
		December 31, 2013								December 31, 2012
	(in thousands)	Deferred				Deferred				Deferred			Deferred
		Tax				Tax				Tax			Tax
		Asset				Liability				Asset			Liability
	Commission and bonus accrual	$	5,793			$	—			$	2,529		$	—
	Employee benefit accruals	46,740				—				44,266			—
	Foreign outside basis difference	—				—				189,125			—
	Inventory	21,941				—				21,173			—
	Identifiable intangible assets	—				374,240				—			359,303
	Insurance premium accruals	4,402				—				4,381			—
	Miscellaneous accruals	10,089				—				12,685			—
	Other	35,734				—				15,844			—
	Unrealized losses included in AOCI	32,908				—				39,879			—
	Property, plant and equipment	—				49,368				—			51,020
	Product warranty accruals	1,069				—				1,154			—
	Foreign tax credit carryforward	48,450				—				—			—
	Restructuring and other cost accruals	956				—				1,048			—
	Sales and marketing accrual	5,768				—				4,480			—
	Taxes on unremitted earnings of foreign subsidiaries	—				2,506				—			2,556
	Tax loss carryforwards and other tax attributes	389,614				—				187,449			—
	Valuation allowance	(228,846		)		—				(179,699		)	—
		$	374,618			$	426,114			$	344,314		$	412,879
	Deferred tax assets and liabilities are included in the following consolidated balance sheet line items:
		December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013				2012
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	$	86,929			$	80,903
Income taxes payable	4,416				2,856
Other noncurrent assets, net	104,385				86,029
Deferred income taxes	238,394				232,641
The Company has $48.5 million of foreign tax credit carryforwards at December 31, 2013, which will expire in 2023.
The deferred tax asset recorded during 2012 for foreign outside basis differences in a wholly owned subsidiary was realized as a deduction for U.S. income tax purposes during 2013, thus the deferred tax asset remaining at December 31, 2013 is now reflected as a tax loss carryforward. This federal tax loss carryforward of $430.2 million will expire in 2033. The Company also has tax loss carryforwards related to certain foreign and domestic subsidiaries of approximately $1.0 billion at December 31, 2013, of which $563.8 million expires at various times through 2033 and $456.4 million may be carried forward indefinitely. Included in deferred income tax assets at December 31, 2013 are tax benefits totaling $315.4 million, before valuation allowances, for the tax loss carryforwards.
The Company has recorded $147.1 million of valuation allowance to offset the tax benefit of net operating losses and $81.7 million of valuation allowance for other deferred tax assets. The Company has recorded these valuation allowances due to the uncertainty that these assets can be realized in the future.
Federal and state tax loss carryforwards that result from the exercise of employee stock options are not recorded on the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets. These tax loss carryforwards are accounted for as a credit to additional paid-in capital when realized through a reduction in income taxes payable. The amount incurred during 2013 for tax loss carryforwards, both federal and state, was $17.2 million.
The Company has provided federal income taxes on certain undistributed earnings of its foreign subsidiaries that the Company anticipates will be repatriated. Deferred federal income taxes have not been provided on $1.3 billion of cumulative earnings of foreign subsidiaries that the Company has determined to be permanently reinvested. It is not practicable to estimate the amount of tax that might be payable on these permanently reinvested earnings.
Tax Contingencies
The Company applies a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. The Company recognizes in the financial statements, the impact of a tax position, if that position is more likely than not of being sustained on audit, based on the technical merits of the position.
The total amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 2013 is approximately $25.9 million, of this total, approximately $24.5 million represents the amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would affect the effective income tax rate.  It is reasonably possible that certain amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will significantly increase or decrease within twelve months of the reporting date of the Company’s consolidated financial statements. Expiration of statutes of limitation in various jurisdictions during the next twelve months could include unrecognized tax benefits of approximately $1.1 million.
The total amount of accrued interest and penalties were $7.9 million and $6.1 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.  The Company has consistently classified interest and penalties recognized in its consolidated financial statements as income taxes based on the accounting policy election of the Company.  During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company recognized income tax expense of $1.7 million in interest and penalties.  During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company recognized income tax benefit in the amount of $0.9 million for interest and penalties and during the year ended December 31, 2011, the Company recognized income tax expense in the amount of $0.9 million.
The Company is subject to U.S. federal income tax as well as income tax of multiple state and foreign jurisdictions.  The significant jurisdictions include the U.S., Germany and Switzerland.  The Company has substantially concluded all U.S. federal income tax matters for years through 2009, resulting in the years 2010 through 2012 being subject to future potential tax audit adjustments while years prior to 2010 are settled.  The Company has concluded audits in Germany through the tax year 2008 and is currently under audit for the years 2009 through 2011.  The taxable years that remain open for Switzerland are 2003 through 2012.
The Company had the following activity recorded for unrecognized tax benefits:
	December 31,
(in thousands)	2013				2012				2011
Unrecognized tax benefits at beginning of period	$	12,264			$	14,956			$	13,143
Gross change for prior period positions	2,471				(3,029		)		1,425
Gross change for current year positions	4,517				268				640
Decrease due to settlements and payments	—				—				—
Decrease due to statute expirations	(1,381		)		—				(123		)
Increase due to effect of foreign currency translation	—				—				—
Decrease due to effect from foreign currency translation	126				69				(129		)
Unrecognized tax benefits at end of period	$	17,997			$	12,264			$	14,956

BENEFIT_PLANS

BENEFIT PLANS	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
BENEFIT PLANS	'
	BENEFIT PLANS
	Defined Contribution Plans
	The DENTSPLY Employee Stock Ownership Plan (“ESOP”) and 401(k) plans are designed to have contribution allocations of eligible compensation, with a targeted 3% going into the ESOP in Company stock and a targeted 3% going into the 401(k) as a non-elective contribution in cash. The Company sponsors an employee 401(k) savings plan for its U.S. workforce to which enrolled participants may contribute up to Internal Revenue Service defined limits. The ESOP is a non-contributory defined contribution plan that covers substantially all of the U.S. based non-union employees of the Company. All future ESOP allocations will come from a combination of forfeited shares and shares acquired in the open market. The share allocation will be accounted at fair value at the point of allocation, which is normally year-end. In addition to these plans, the Company also maintains various other U.S. and non-U.S. defined contribution and non-qualified deferred compensation plans. The annual expense, net of forfeitures, were $25.8 million, $26.1 million and $17.5 million for 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
	Defined Benefit Plans
	The Company maintains a number of separate contributory and non-contributory qualified defined benefit pension plans for certain union and salaried employee groups in the United States. Pension benefits for salaried plans are based on salary and years of service; hourly plans are based on negotiated benefits and years of service. Annual contributions to the pension plans are sufficient to satisfy minimum funding requirements. Pension plan assets are held in trust and consist mainly of common stock and fixed income investments. The U.S. plans are funded in excess of the funding required by the U.S. Department of Labor.
	In addition to the U.S. plans, the Company maintains defined benefit pension plans for certain employees in Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and Taiwan. These plans provide benefits based upon age, years of service and remuneration. Other foreign plans are not significant individually or in the aggregate. Substantially all of the German and Sweden plans are unfunded book reserve plans. Most employees and retirees outside the U.S. are covered by government health plans.
	Defined Benefit Pension Plan Assets
	The primary investment strategy is to ensure that the assets of the plans, along with anticipated future contributions, will be invested in order that the benefit entitlements of employees, pensioners and beneficiaries covered under the plan can be met when due with high probability. Pension plan assets consist mainly of common stock and fixed income investments. The target allocations for defined benefit plan assets are 30% to 65% equity securities, 30% to 65% fixed income securities, 0% to 15% real estate, and 0% to 25% in all other types of investments.  Equity securities include investments in companies located both in and outside the U.S.  Equity securities do not include common stock of the Company. Fixed income securities include corporate bonds of companies from diversified industries, government bonds, mortgage notes and pledge letters. Other types of investments include investments in mutual funds, common trusts, insurance contracts, hedge funds and real estate. These plan assets are not recorded on the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheet as they are held in trust or other off-balance sheet investment vehicles.
	The defined benefit pension plan assets in the U.S. are held in trust and the investment policies of the plans are generally to invest the plans assets in equities and fixed income investments.  The objective is to achieve a long-term rate of return in excess of 5% while at the same time mitigating the impact of investment risk associated with investment categories that are expected to yield greater than average returns.   In accordance with the investment policies of the U.S. plans, the plans assets were invested in the following investment categories: interest-bearing cash, registered investment companies (e.g. mutual funds), common/collective trusts, master trust investment accounts and insurance company general accounts.  The investment objective is for assets to be invested in a manner consistent with the fiduciary standards of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended (“ERISA”).
	The defined benefit pension plan assets maintained in Austria, Germany, Japan, Norway, the Netherlands, Switzerland and Taiwan all have separate investment policies but generally have an objective to achieve a long-term rate of return in excess 4% while at the same time mitigating the impact of investment risk associated with investment categories that are expected to yield greater than average returns.  In accordance with the investment policies for the plans outside the U.S., the plans’ assets were invested in the following investment categories: interest-bearing cash, U.S. and foreign equities, foreign fixed income securities (primarily corporate and government bonds), insurance company contracts, real estate and hedge funds.
	Postemployment Healthcare
	The Company sponsors postemployment healthcare plans that cover certain union and salaried employee groups in the U.S. and is contributory, with retiree contributions adjusted annually to limit the Company’s contribution for participants who retired after June 1, 1985. The plans for postemployment healthcare have no plan assets. The Company also sponsors unfunded non-contributory postemployment medical plans for a limited number of union employees and their spouses and retirees of a discontinued operation.
	Reconciliations of changes in the defined benefit and postemployment healthcare plans’ benefit obligations, fair value of assets and statement of funded status are as follows:
										Other Postemployment
		Pension Benefits								Benefits
		December 31,								December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013				2012				2013			2012
	Change in Benefit Obligation
	Benefit obligation at beginning of year	$	355,766			$	270,607			$	14,218		$	12,217
	Service cost	14,863				12,178				234			195
	Interest cost	9,901				10,600				464			490
	Participant contributions	3,968				3,638				515			535
	Actuarial (gains) losses	(20,727		)		59,461				(2,708		)	1,601
	Plan amendments	—				(93		)		11			—
	Acquisitions/Divestitures	30				3,745				—			—
	Effect of exchange rate changes	8,248				8,100				—			—
	Foreign plan additions	—				540				—			—
	Foreign plan deletions	(524		)		—				—			—
	Plan curtailments	(1,669		)		(310		)		—			—
	Benefits paid	(10,440		)		(12,700		)		(798		)	(820		)
	Benefit obligation at end of year	$	359,416			$	355,766			$	11,936		$	14,218
	Change in Plan Assets
	Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	$	124,884			$	108,708			$	—		$	—
	Actual return on assets	9,658				10,732				—			—
	Effect of exchange rate changes	2,377				2,362				—			—
	Employer contributions	12,718				12,144				283			285
	Participant contributions	3,968				3,638				515			535
	Benefits paid	(10,440		)		(12,700		)		(798		)	(820		)
	Fair value of plan assets at end of year	$	143,165			$	124,884			$	—		$	—
	Funded status at end of year	$	(216,251	)		$	(230,882	)		$	(11,936	)	$	(14,218	)
	The amounts recognized in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets, net of tax effects, are as follows:
		Pension Benefits								Other Postemployment
										Benefits
		December 31,								December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013				2012				2013			2012
	Other noncurrent assets, net	$	23			$	263			$	—		$	—
	Deferred tax asset	19,618				26,421				605			1,764
	Total assets	$	19,641			$	26,684			$	605		$	1,764
	Current liabilities	(5,097		)		(4,561		)		(491		)	(654		)
	Other noncurrent liabilities	(211,177		)		(226,584		)		(11,445		)	(13,564		)
	Deferred tax liability	(644		)		(449		)		—			—
	Total liabilities	$	(216,918	)		$	(231,594	)		$	(11,936	)	$	(14,218	)
	Accumulated other comprehensive income	48,957				70,377				961			2,805
	Net amount recognized	$	(148,320	)		$	(134,533	)		$	(10,370	)	$	(9,649	)
	Amounts recognized in AOCI consist of:
										Other Postemployment
		Pension Benefits								Benefits
		December 31,								December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013				2012				2013			2012
	Net actuarial loss	$	70,615			$	99,129			$	1,557		$	4,569
	Net prior service cost	(2,684		)		(2,780		)		9			—
	Before tax AOCI	$	67,931			$	96,349			$	1,566		$	4,569
	Less: Deferred taxes	18,974				25,972				605			1,764
Net of tax AOCI	$	48,957			$	70,377			$	961		$	2,805
Information for pension plans with an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets:
	December 31,
(in thousands)	2013				2012
Projected benefit obligation	$	357,459			$	344,653
Accumulated benefit obligation	330,215				315,963
Fair value of plan assets	141,186				117,413
Components of net periodic benefit cost:
	Pension Benefits											Other Postemployment
												Benefits
(in thousands)	2013				2012				2011			2013				2012			2011
Service cost	$	14,863			$	12,178			$	10,950		$	234			$	195		$	61
Interest cost	9,901				10,600				9,633			464				490			553
Expected return on assets	(4,998		)		(4,727		)		(5,184		)	—				—			—
Amortization of prior service cost (credit)	(133		)		(138		)		80			2				—			—
Amortization of net actuarial loss	5,150				1,995				1,584			303				264			189
Curtailment and settlement gains	(1,600		)		(303		)		4			—				—			—
Net periodic benefit cost	$	23,183			$	19,605			$	17,067		$	1,003			$	949		$	803
Other changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in AOCI:
	Pension Benefits											Other Postemployment
												Benefits
(in thousands)	2013				2012				2011			2013				2012			2011
Net actuarial (gain) loss	$	(23,364	)		$	55,662			$	8,352		$	(2,709	)		$	1,601		$	537
Net prior service (credit)	(37		)		(161		)		(2,845		)	11				—			—
Amortization	(5,017		)		(1,857		)		(1,664		)	(305		)		(264		)	(189		)
Total recognized in AOCI	$	(28,418	)		$	53,644			$	3,843		$	(3,003	)		$	1,337		$	348
Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and AOCI	$	(5,235	)		$	73,249			$	20,910		$	(2,000	)		$	2,286		$	1,151
The estimated net loss, prior service cost and transition obligation for the defined benefit plans that will be amortized from AOCI into net periodic benefit cost over the next fiscal year are $2.7 million. There will be an immaterial amount of estimated net loss and prior service credit for the other postemployment plans that will be amortized from AOCI into net periodic benefit cost over the next fiscal year.
The amounts in AOCI that are expected to be amortized as net expense (income) during fiscal year 2014 are as follows:
(in thousands)	Pension				Other Postemployment
	Benefits				Benefits
Amount of net prior service cost (credit)	$	(138	)		$	2
Amount of net loss	2,838				43
The weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations for the Company’s plans, principally in foreign locations, at December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 are as follows:
	Pension Benefits									Other Postemployment
										Benefits
	2013			2012			2011			2013		2012			2011
Discount rate	3.2	%		2.8	%		4	%		4.8	%	3.5	%		4	%
Rate of compensation increase	2.7	%		2.7	%		2.8	%		n/a		n/a			n/a
Health care cost trend	n/a			n/a			n/a			8.5	%	8	%		7.5	%
Ultimate health care cost trend	n/a			n/a			n/a			5	%	5	%		5	%
Years until ultimate trend is reached	n/a			n/a			n/a			8		7			6
The weighted average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost for the Company’s plans, principally in foreign locations, for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 are as follows:
	Pension Benefits									Other Postemployment
										Benefits
	2013			2012			2011			2013		2012			2011
Discount rate	2.8	%		4	%		4.1	%		3.5	%	4	%		5	%
Expected return on plan assets	4.3	%		4.1	%		4.8	%		n/a		n/a			n/a
Rate of compensation increase	2.7	%		2.8	%		2.6	%		n/a		n/a			n/a
Health care cost trend	n/a			n/a			n/a			8.5	%	8	%		7.5	%
Ultimate health care cost trend	n/a			n/a			n/a			5	%	5	%		5	%
Years until ultimate trend is reached	n/a			n/a			n/a			8		7			6
Measurement Date	12/31/13			12/31/12			12/31/11			12/31/13		12/31/12			12/31/11
To develop the assumptions for the expected long-term rate of return on assets, the Company considered the current level of expected returns on risk free investments (primarily U.S. government bonds), the historical level of the risk premium associated with the other asset classes in which the assets are invested and the expectations for future returns of each asset class.  The expected return for each asset class was then weighted based on the target asset allocations to develop the assumptions for the expected long-term rate of return on assets.
Assumed health care cost trend rates have an impact on the amounts reported for postemployment benefits. An ongoing one percentage point change in assumed healthcare cost trend rates would have had the following effects for the year ended December 31, 2013:
	Other Postemployment
	Benefits
(in thousands)	1% Increase				1% Decrease
Effect on total of service and interest cost components	$	161			$	(123	)
Effect on postemployment benefit obligation	2,104				(1,656		)
Fair Value Measurements of Plan Assets
The fair value of the Company’s pension plan assets at December 31, 2013 is presented in the table below by asset category. Approximately 82% of the total plan assets are categorized as Level 1, and therefore, the values assigned to these pension assets are based on quoted prices available in active markets.  For the other category levels, a description of the valuation is provided in Note 1, Significant Accounting Policies, under the “Fair Value Measurement” heading.
	December 31, 2013
(in thousands)	Total				Level 1				Level 2			Level 3
Assets Category
Cash and cash equivalents	$	15,231			$	15,231			$	—		$	—
Equity securities:
U. S.	929				929				—			—
International	37,904				37,904				—			—
Fixed income securities:
Fixed rate bonds (a)	51,066				51,066				—			—
Other types of investments:
Mutual funds (b)	3,367				3,367				—			—
Real estate mutual funds	8,906				8,906				—			—
Common trusts (c)	10,100				—				6,802			3,298
Insurance contracts	13,240				—				3,739			9,501
Hedge funds	2,046				—				—			2,046
Real estate	376				—				—			376
Total	$	143,165			$	117,403			$	10,541		$	15,221
	December 31, 2012
(in thousands)	Total				Level 1				Level 2			Level 3
Assets Category
Cash and cash equivalents	$	5,930			$	5,930			$	—		$	—
Equity securities:
U. S.	1,015				1,015				—			—
International	34,197				34,197				—			—
Fixed income securities:
Fixed rate bonds (a)	48,450				48,450				—			—
Other types of investments:
Mutual funds (b)	8,994				—				8,994			—
Real estate mutual funds	9,713				9,713				—			—
Common trusts (c)	2,708				—				—			2,708
Insurance contracts	12,199				—				3,865			8,334
Hedge funds	1,311				—				—			1,311
Real estate	367				—				—			367
Total	$	124,884			$	99,305			$	12,859		$	12,720
(a)	This category includes fixed income securities invested primarily in Swiss bonds, foreign bonds denominated in Swiss francs, foreign currency bonds, mortgage notes and pledged letters.
(b)	This category includes mutual funds balanced between moderate-income generation and moderate capital appreciation with investment allocations of approximately 50% equities and 50% fixed income investments.
(c)	This category includes common/collective funds with investments in approximately 65% equities and 35% in fixed income investments.
The following table provides a reconciliation from December 31, 2012 to December 31, 2013 for the plans assets categorized as Level 3. No assets were transferred in or out of the Level 3 category during the year ended December 31, 2013.
	Changes within Level 3 Category for
	Year Ended December 31, 2013
(in thousands)	Common				Insurance				Hedge			Real				Total
	Trust				Contracts				Funds			Estate
Balance at December 31, 2012	$	2,708			$	8,334			$	1,311		$	367			$	12,720
Actual return on plan assets:
Relating to assets still held at the reporting date	409				421				82			—				912
Relating to assets sold during the period	99				—				—			—				99
Purchases, sales and settlements, net	82				637				596			—				1,315
Effect of exchange rate changes	—				109				57			9				175
Balance at December 31, 2013	$	3,298			$	9,501			$	2,046		$	376			$	15,221
The following tables provide a reconciliation from December 31, 2011 to December 31, 2012 for the plans assets categorized as Level 3.  No assets were transferred in or out of the Level 3 category during the year ended December 31, 2012.
	Changes within Level 3 Category for
	Year Ended December 31, 2012
(in thousands)	Common				Insurance				Hedge			Real				Total
	Trust				Contracts				Funds			Estate
Balance at December 31, 2011	$	2,083			$	5,820			$	890		$	358			$	9,151
Actual return on plan assets:
Relating to assets still held at the reporting date	284				1,700				52			—				2,036
Relating to assets sold during the period	8				—				6			—				14
Purchases, sales and settlements, net	333				533				331			—				1,197
Effect of exchange rate changes	—				281				32			9				322
Balance at December 31, 2012	$	2,708			$	8,334			$	1,311		$	367			$	12,720
Fair values for Level 3 assets are determined as follows:
Common Trusts and Hedge Funds:  The investments are valued using the net asset value provided by the administrator of the trust or fund, which is based on the fair value of the underlying securities.
Real Estate:  Investment is stated by its appraised value.
Insurance Contracts: The value of the asset represents the mathematical reserve of the insurance policies and is calculated by the insurance firms using their own assumptions.
Cash Flows
In 2014, the Company expects to make contributions and direct benefit payments of $12.1 million to its defined benefit pension plans and $0.5 million to its postemployment medical plans.
Estimated Future Benefit Payments
(in thousands)	Pension				Other
	Benefits				Postemployment
					Benefits
2014	$	10,595			$	502
2015	11,697				497
2016	11,171				487
2017	12,221				504
2018	14,437				524
2019-2022	82,030				2,794
The above table reflects the total employer contributions and benefits expected to be paid from the plan and does not include the participants’ share of the cost.

RESTRUCTURING_AND_OTHER_COSTS

RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER COSTS	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER COSTS	'
	RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER COSTS
	Restructuring Costs
	Restructuring costs of $12.0 million and $17.8 million for 2013 and 2012, respectively, are reflected in “Restructuring and other costs” in the Consolidated Statement of Operations and the associated liabilities are recorded in “Accrued liabilities” and “Other noncurrent liabilities” in the Consolidated Balance Sheet.  These costs consist of employee severance benefits, payments due under operating contracts, and other restructuring costs.
	During 2013, the Company initiated several restructuring plans primarily related to closing locations as a result of integration activities as the Company realigned certain implant and implant related businesses to better leverage the Company’s resources by reducing costs and obtaining operational efficiencies.  These restructuring costs were offset by changes in estimates of $2.3 million, related to adjustments to 2012 and 2011 and prior plans.
	During 2012, the Company initiated several restructuring plans primarily related to the closure and/or consolidation of certain production and selling facilities in Europe to better leverage the Company’s resources by reducing costs and obtaining operational efficiencies.  These restructuring costs were offset by changes in estimates of $0.8 million, related to adjustments to 2011 and 2010 and prior plans.
	During 2011, as a result of the impact of the Japan natural disaster, the Company initiated a restructuring plan related to the Orthodontic business during the second quarter. The restructuring plan addressed overhead costs related to the business and has reduced those costs as the Orthodontic business. The Company recorded $1.7 million of charges for the year ended December 31, 2011 for this plan. In addition to the restructuring charges, for the year ended December 31, 2011, the Company incurred approximately $3.3 million of selling, general and administrative expenses related to costs of maintaining the critical Orthodontic business processes and structures during the lack of product supply.
	In addition to the Orthodontic restructuring plans during 2011, the Company also initiated several restructuring plans primarily related to the closure and/or consolidation of certain production and selling facilities in Europe and South America to better leverage the Company’s resources by reducing costs and obtaining operational efficiencies. The Company incurred $1.9 million of costs related to other restructuring plans, offset by income of $0.5 million for adjustments to 2010 plans and 2009 and prior plans. These adjustments were primarily related to revised estimates of severance costs.
	At December 31, 2013, the Company’s restructuring accruals were as follows:
		Severances
	(in thousands)	2011 and			2012 Plans			2013 Plans			Total
		Prior Plans
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	1,495		$	11,412		$	—		$	12,907
	Provisions and adjustments	—			1,314			8,615			9,929
	Amounts applied	(1,069		)	(9,832		)	(2,615		)	(13,516		)
	Change in estimates	(24		)	(2,014		)	(236		)	(2,274		)
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	402		$	880		$	5,764		$	7,046
		Lease/Contract Terminations
	(in thousands)	2011 and			2012 Plans			2013 Plans			Total
		Prior Plans
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	792		$	682		$	—		$	1,474
	Provisions and adjustments	—			77			1,999			2,076
	Amounts applied	(136		)	(626		)	(1,887		)	(2,649		)
	Change in estimates	$	—		(41		)	(14		)	(55		)
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	656		$	92		$	98		$	846
		Other Restructuring Costs
	(in thousands)	2012 Plans			2013 Plans			Total
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	94		$	—		$	94
	Provisions and adjustments	957			1,383			2,340
	Amounts applied	(994		)	(716		)	(1,710		)
	Change in estimates	1			(9		)	(8		)
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	58		$	658		$	716
	The following table provides the cumulative amounts for the provisions and adjustments and amounts applied for all the plans by segment:
	(in thousands)	December 31, 2012			Provisions and			Amounts			Change in Estimates			December 31, 2013
					Adjustments			Applied
	Dental Consumable and Laboratory Businesses	$	9,132		$	1,236		$	(7,635	)	$	(1,390	)	$	1,343
	Orthodontics/Canada/Mexico/Japan	361			164			(415		)	(4		)	106
	Select Distribution Businesses	222			383			(266		)	—			339
	Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim	4,760			11,869			(9,242		)	(943		)	6,444
	All Other	—			693			(317		)	—			376
	Total	$	14,475		$	14,345		$	(17,875	)	$	(2,337	)	$	8,608
	Other Costs
	For the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company recorded other costs of $1.4 million which included a $2.4 million impairment of certain previously acquired technology offset by net gain for legal settlements. For the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company recorded other costs of $7.9 million, other costs including $5.2 million impairments of certain previously acquired technologies and the impact of the U.S. presidential executive order updating trade sanctions. On October 9, 2012, President Obama issued an executive order making it illegal for non-U.S. subsidiaries of U.S. companies to engage in certain transactions involving Iran without a license.  The Company reserved appropriate allowances against accounts receivable in its controlled foreign subsidiaries and has discontinued such sales activities.  There can be no assurance as to when such sales may be resumed to this region.

FINANCIAL_INSTRUMENTS_AND_DERI

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND DERIVATIVES	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND DERIVATIVES	'
	FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND DERIVATIVES
	Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities
	The Company’s activities expose it to a variety of market risks, which primarily include the risks related to the effects of changes in foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and commodity prices. These financial exposures are monitored and managed by the Company as part of its overall risk management program. The objective of this risk management program is to reduce the volatility that these market risks may have on the Company’s operating results and equity. The Company employs derivative financial instruments to hedge certain anticipated transactions, firm commitments, or assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies. Additionally, the Company utilizes interest rate swaps to convert variable rate debt to fixed rate debt and to convert fixed rate debt to variable rate debt, cross currency basis swaps to convert debt denominated in one currency to another currency and commodity swaps to fix certain variable raw material costs.
	Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging
	The Company enters into derivative financial instruments to hedge the foreign exchange revaluation risk associated with recorded assets and liabilities that are denominated in a non-functional currency. The gains and losses on these derivative transactions offset the gains and losses generated by the revaluation of the underlying non-functional currency balances and are recorded in “Other expense (income), net” on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. The Company primarily uses forward foreign exchange contracts and cross currency basis swaps to hedge these risks. The Company’s significant contracts outstanding at December 31, 2013 are summarized in the tables that follow.
	On December 20, 2012, the Company established hedges totaling 241.4 million Swiss francs to offset an intercompany Swiss franc note receivable at a U.S. dollar functional entity that was created by a net dividend of 241.4 million Swiss francs. The change in the value of the hedges offset the change in the value of the Swiss franc denominated intercompany note receivable held at a U.S. dollar functional entity. During the year ending December 31, 2013, the Company adjusted the amount of the hedge each quarter to reflect note repayments and maintain an offset to the currency revaluation of the Swiss franc note receivable outstanding. The note and the hedge decreased by 142.3 million Swiss francs as the note was repaid. The hedge settlements resulted in $7.0 million cash receipt.
	On January 10, 2013, the Company entered into 347.8 million euros of cross currency basis swaps to hedge a balance sheet liability resulting from a legal entity restructuring pursuant to the Company’s acquisition integration plans. The hedges had an original exchange rate of approximately 1.32 U.S. dollars per euro and offset currency revaluation of a euro note payable by a U.S. dollar functional company. On June 19, 2013, the Company terminated these swaps resulting in a cash receipt of $2.2 million.
	On June 27, 2013 and September 16, 2013, the Company dedesignated 36.0 million euros and 48.0 million euros, respectively, of its net investment hedges. These trades matured during the fourth quarter of 2013, resulting in a net cash payment of $3.7 million. The change in the value of the hedges offset the change in the value of a euro denominated intercompany note receivable held at a U.S. dollar functional entity.
	Derivative Instruments Designated as Hedging
	Cash Flow Hedges
	Foreign Exchange Risk Management
	The Company uses a layered hedging program to hedge select anticipated foreign currency cash flows to reduce volatility in both cash flows and reported earnings of the consolidated Company. The Company accounts for the foreign exchange forward contracts as cash flow hedges. As a result, the Company records the fair value of the contracts primarily through AOCI based on the tested effectiveness of the foreign exchange forward contracts. The Company measures the effectiveness of cash flow hedges of anticipated transactions on a spot-to-spot basis rather than on a forward-to-forward basis. Accordingly, the spot-to-spot change in the derivative fair value will be deferred in AOCI and released and recorded on the Consolidated Statements of Operations in the same period that the hedged transaction is recorded. The time value component of the fair value of the derivative is deemed ineffective and is reported currently in “Other expense (income), net” on the Consolidated Statements of Operations in the period which it is applicable. Any cash flows associated with these instruments are included in cash from operating activities on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows in accordance with the Company’s policy of classifying the cash flows from these instruments in the same category as the cash flows from the items being hedged.
	These foreign exchange forward contracts generally have maturities up to eighteen months and the counterparties to the transactions are typically large international financial institutions. The Company’s significant contracts outstanding at December 31, 2013 are summarized in the tables that follow.
	Interest Rate Risk Management
	The Company uses interest rate swaps to convert a portion of its variable interest rate debt to fixed interest rate debt. At December 31, 2013, the Company has two groups of significant interest rate swaps. One of the groups of swaps has notional amounts totaling 12.6 billion Japanese yen, and effectively converts the underlying variable interest rates to an average fixed interest rate of 0.2% for a term of three years, ending in September 2014. Another swap has a notional amount of 65.0 million Swiss francs, and effectively converts the underlying variable interest rates to a fixed interest rate of 0.7% for a term of five years, ending in September 2016.
	The Company enters into interest rate swap contracts infrequently as they are only used to manage interest rate risk on long-term debt instruments and not for speculative purposes. Any cash flows associated with these instruments are included in cash from operating activities on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows in accordance with the Company’s policy of classifying the cash flows from these instruments in the same category as the cash flows from the items being hedged. The Company’s significant contracts outstanding at December 31, 2013 are summarized in the tables that follow.
	Commodity Risk Management
	The Company selectively enters into commodity swaps to effectively fix certain variable raw material costs. These swaps are used to stabilize the cost of components used in the production of certain of the Company’s products. The Company generally accounts for the commodity swaps as cash flow hedges. As a result, the Company records the fair value of the contracts primarily through AOCI based on the tested effectiveness of the commodity swaps. The Company measures the effectiveness of cash flow hedges of anticipated transactions on a spot-to-spot basis rather than on a forward-to-forward basis. Accordingly, the spot-to-spot change in the derivative fair value will be deferred in AOCI and released and recorded on the Consolidated Statements of Operations in the same period that the hedged transaction is recorded. The time value component of the fair value of the derivative is deemed ineffective and is reported currently in “Interest expense” on the Consolidated Statements of Operations in the period which it is applicable. Any cash flows associated with these instruments are included in cash from operating activities on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows in accordance with the Company’s policy of classifying the cash flows from these instruments in the same category as the cash flows from the items being hedged.
	The following tables summarize the notional amounts and fair value of the Company’s cash flow hedges and non-designated derivatives at December 31, 2013:
	Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts		Notional								Fair Value Net
			Amounts Maturing in the Year								Asset (Liability)
	(in thousands)		2014				2015				December 31, 2013
	Forward sale, 14.9 million Australian dollars		$	12,331			$	1,610			$	757
	Forward purchase, 12.6 million British pounds		(20,916		)		—				193
	Forward sale, 46.5 million Canadian dollars		35,861				8,247				1,045
	Forward purchase, 22.7 million Danish kroner		(4,181		)		—				(4		)
	Forward sale, 212.9 million euros		243,739				47,344				(2,755		)
	Forward sale, 23.3 million Hong Kong dollars		3,006				—				133
	Forward sale, 870.6 million Japanese yen		8,263				—				(626		)
	Forward sale, 180.9 million Mexican pesos		13,837				—				46
	Forward purchase, 12.9 million Norwegian kroner		(2,118		)		—				(2		)
	Forward sale, 0.5 million New Zealand dollars		417				—				2
	Forward sale, 17.0 million Polish zlotys		5,621				—				(73		)
	Forward sale, 3.2 million Singapore dollars		2,515				—				7
	Forward sale, 4.2 billion South Korean won		4,000				—				1
	Forward purchase, 1.3 billion Swedish kronor		(183,015		)		(28,429		)		(1,282		)
	Forward purchase, 48.1 million Swiss francs		(62,278		)		7,225				(1,009		)
	Forward sale, 71.6 million Taiwanese dollars		2,401				—				31
	Total foreign exchange forward contracts		$	59,483			$	35,997			$	(3,536	)
	Interest Rate Swaps		Notional Amounts Maturing in the Year																Fair Value Net
																			Asset (Liability)
	(in thousands)		2014				2015				2016			2017			2018 and Beyond		December 31, 2013
	Euro		$	993			$	993			$	993		$	993		$	248	$	(341	)
	Japanese yen		119,213				—				—			—			—		47
	Swiss francs		—				—				72,829			—			—		(885		)
	Total interest rate swaps		$	120,206			$	993			$	73,822		$	993		$	248	$	(1,179	)
	Commodity Swap Contracts		Notional								Fair Value Net
			Amounts Maturing in the Year								Asset (Liability)
	(in thousands)		2014				2015				December 31, 2013
	Silver swap - U.S. dollar		$	1,446			$	112			$	(343	)
	Platinum swap - U.S. dollar		1,351				101				(91		)
	Total commodity contracts		$	2,797			$	213			$	(434	)
	Cross Currency Basis Swaps		Notional								Fair Value Net Asset (Liability)
			Amounts Maturing in the Year
	(in thousands)		2014				2015				December 31, 2013
	449.8 million euros at 1.45 pay U.S. dollar three-month LIBOR receive three-month Euro Inter-Bank Offered Rate		$	618,449			$	—			$	(33,800	)
	141.4 million Swiss francs at 0.93 pay Swiss francs three-month LIBOR receive U.S. dollar three-month LIBOR		112,045				46,370				(6,692		)
	Total cross currency basis swaps		$	730,494			$	46,370			$	(40,492	)
	At December 31, 2013, deferred net losses on derivative instruments of $7.7 million, which were recorded in AOCI, are expected to be reclassified to current earnings during the next twelve months. This reclassification is primarily due to the sale of inventory that includes hedged purchases and recognized interest expense on interest rate swaps. The maximum term over which the Company is hedging exposures to variability of cash flows (for all forecasted transactions, excluding interest payments on variable interest rate debt) is eighteen months. Overall, the derivatives designated as cash flow hedges are highly effective. Any cash flows associated with these instruments are included in cash from operating activities in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows in accordance with the Company’s policy of classifying the cash flows from these instruments in the same category as the cash flows from the items being hedged.
	Hedges of Net Investments in Foreign Operations
	The Company has significant investments in foreign subsidiaries. The net assets of these subsidiaries are exposed to volatility in currency exchange rates. Currently, the Company uses both non-derivative financial instruments, including foreign currency denominated debt held at the parent company level and derivative financial instruments to hedge some of this exposure. Translation gains and losses related to the net assets of the foreign subsidiaries are offset by gains and losses in the non-derivative and derivative financial instruments designated as hedges of net investments, which are included in AOCI.
	During the fourth quarter of 2013, the Company settled and replaced net investment hedges totaling 533.8 million euros. The settled hedge instruments were cross currency basis swaps that matured in October and December of 2013. The Company replaced these hedges with new foreign exchange forward contracts that have layered maturity dates from March 2014 to June 2015. These net investment hedges were traded at an exchange rate of approximately 1.37 U.S. dollars per euro which resulted in cash payments totaling $52.7 million to settle the hedges during the fourth quarter of 2013. On December 30, 2013, the Company entered into 22.0 million euros of additional foreign exchange forward contracts designated as hedges of net investments, maturing June 2015. The hedges had an original exchange rate of approximately 1.38 U.S. dollars per euro.
	On January 17, 2013, the Company extended 295.5 million Swiss francs of cross currency basis swaps maturing in February, March and April of 2013 with five new forward starting swaps totaling 295.5 million Swiss francs maturing in February 2016, March 2017 and April 2018. These net investment hedges were traded at an exchange rate of approximately .93 Swiss francs per U.S. dollar which resulted in cash payments totaling $55.2 million to settle the hedges in February, March, and April of 2013. The Company will receive three-month U.S. dollar LIBOR and pay three-month Swiss franc LIBOR minus 31.6 basis points.
At December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company had debt, cross currency basis swaps and foreign exchange forward contracts to hedge the currency exposure related to a designated portion of the net assets of its European, Swiss and Japanese subsidiaries. The fair value net asset (liability) of the cross currency interest rate swap agreements and foreign exchange forward contracts is the estimated amount the Company would receive (pay) at the reporting date, taking into account the effective interest rates, currency swap basis rates and foreign exchange rates. At December 31, 2013 and 2012, the estimated net fair values of the cross currency interest rate swap agreements was a liability of $18.1 million and a liability of $90.7 million, respectively. At December 31, 2013, the estimated net fair values of the foreign exchange forward contracts was a liability of $5.1 million; the Company did not hold similar contracts at December 31, 2012. The effective portion of the change in the value of these derivatives is recorded in AOCI, net of tax effects. At December 31, 2013 and 2012, the accumulated translation gain (loss) on investments in foreign subsidiaries, primarily denominated in euros, Swiss francs, Japanese yen and Swedish kronor, net of these net investment hedges, were losses of $10.1 million and $71.4 million, respectively, which were included in AOCI, net of tax effects.
The following tables summarize the notional amounts and fair value of the Company’s hedges of net investments in foreign operations at December 31, 2013:
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts		Notional Amounts Maturing in the Year								Fair Value Net
										Asset (Liability)
(in thousands)		2014				2015				31-Dec-13
Forward sale, 555.8 million euros		$	705,078			$	59,127			$	(5,112	)
Total foreign exchange forward contracts		$	705,078			$	59,127			$	(5,112	)
Cross Currency Basis Swaps		Notional Amounts Maturing in the Year																Fair Value Net
																		Asset (Liability)
(in thousands)		2014				2015				2016			2017			2018		December 31, 2013
432.5 million Swiss francs at 0.93 pay Swiss francs three-month LIBOR receive U.S. dollar three-month LIBOR		$	90,084			$	63,417			$	112,045		$	112,045		$	107,003	$	(18,106	)
Total cross currency basis swaps		$	90,084			$	63,417			$	112,045		$	112,045		$	107,003	$	(18,106	)
Fair Value Hedges
The Company uses interest rate swaps to convert a portion of its fixed interest rate debt to variable interest rate debt. The Company has a group of U.S. dollar denominated interest rate swaps with an initial total notional value of $150.0 million to effectively convert the underlying fixed interest rate of 4.1% on the Company’s $250.0 million PPN to variable rate for a term of five years, ending February 2016. The notional value of the swaps will decline proportionately as portions of the PPN mature. These interest rate swaps are designated as fair value hedges of the interest rate risk associated with the hedged portion of the fixed rate PPN. Accordingly, the Company will carry the portion of the hedged debt at fair value, with the change in debt and swaps offsetting each other in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. At December 31, 2013, the estimated net fair value of these interest rate swaps was an asset of $2.4 million.
The following tables summarize the notional amounts and fair value of the Company’s fair value hedges at December 31, 2013:
													Fair Value Net
Interest Rate Swaps		Notional Amounts Maturing in the Year											Asset (Liability)
(in thousands)		2014				2015				2016			December 31, 2013
U.S. dollar		$	45,000			$	60,000			$	45,000		$	2,359
Total interest rate swaps		$	45,000			$	60,000			$	45,000		$	2,359
The following tables summarize the fair value and location of the Company’s derivatives on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2013 and 2012:
			December 31, 2013
			Prepaid				Other				Accrued			Other
	(in thousands)		Expenses				Noncurrent				Liabilities			Noncurrent
			and Other				Assets, Net							Liabilities
	Designated as Hedges		Current Assets
	Foreign exchange forward contracts		$	1,517			$	255			$	10,280		$	940
	Commodity contracts		—				1				434			1
	Interest rate swaps		789				1,617				466			419
	Cross currency basis swaps		530				—				2,223			16,413
	Total		$	2,836			$	1,873			$	13,403		$	17,773
	Not Designated as Hedges
	Foreign exchange forward contracts		$	3,128			$	—			$	2,328		$	—
	DIO equity option contracts		—				—				—			142
	Interest rate swaps		—				—				85			256
	Cross currency basis swaps		—				—				38,551			1,941
	Total		$	3,128			$	—			$	40,964		$	2,339
		December 31, 2012
		Prepaid				Other				Accrued			Other
(in thousands)		Expenses				Noncurrent				Liabilities			Noncurrent
		and Other				Assets, Net							Liabilities
Designated as Hedges		Current Assets
Foreign exchange forward contracts		$	2,353			$	65			$	2,243		$	844
Commodity contracts		—				—				95			—
Interest rate swaps		2,192				2,535				525			948
Cross currency basis swaps		8,191				—				97,281			1,588
Total		$	12,736			$	2,600			$	100,144		$	3,380
Not Designated as Hedges
Foreign exchange forward contracts		$	6,652			$	—			$	1,353		$	—
DIO equity option contracts		—				—				—			153
Interest rate swaps		—				—				114			416
Cross currency basis swaps		537				—				40,026			55,858
Total		$	7,189			$	—			$	41,493		$	56,427
Balance Sheet Offsetting
Substantially all of the Company’s derivative contracts are subject to netting arrangements, whereby the right to offset occurs in the event of default or termination in accordance with the terms of the arrangements with the counterparty. While these contracts contain the enforceable right to offset through netting arrangements, the Company elects to present them on a gross basis on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Offsetting of financial assets and liabilities under netting arrangements at December 31, 2013:
													Gross Amounts Not Offset in the Consolidated Balance Sheets
(in thousands)		Gross Amounts Recognized				Gross Amount Offset in the Consolidated Balance Sheets				Net Amounts Presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheets			Financial Instruments			Cash Collateral Received/Pledged		Net Amount
Assets
Foreign exchange forward contracts		$	4,900			$	—			$	4,900		$	(4,641	)	$	—	$	259
Commodity contracts		1				—				1			(1		)	—		—
Interest rate swaps		2,406				—				2,406			(1,979		)	—		427
Cross currency basis swaps		530				—				530			(530		)	—		—
Total Assets		$	7,837			$	—			$	7,837		$	(7,151	)	$	—	$	686
													Gross Amounts Not Offset in the Consolidated Balance Sheets
(in thousands)		Gross Amounts Recognized				Gross Amount Offset in the Consolidated Balance Sheets				Net Amounts Presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheets			Financial Instruments			Cash Collateral Received/Pledged		Net Amount
Liabilities
Foreign exchange forward contracts		$	13,548			$	—			$	13,548		$	(3,467	)	$	—	$	10,081
Commodity contracts		435				—				435			(1		)	—		434
DIO equity option contracts		142				—				142			—			—		142
Interest rate swaps		1,226				—				1,226			(62		)	—		1,164
Cross currency basis swaps		59,128				—				59,128			(3,621		)	—		55,507
Total Liabilities		$	74,479			$	—			$	74,479		$	(7,151	)	$	—	$	67,328
Offsetting of financial assets and liabilities under netting arrangements at December 31, 2012:
													Gross Amounts Not Offset in the Consolidated Balance Sheets
(in thousands)		Gross Amounts Recognized				Gross Amount Offset in the Consolidated Balance Sheets				Net Amounts Presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheets			Financial Instruments			Cash Collateral Received/Pledged		Net Amount
Assets
Foreign exchange forward contracts		$	9,070			$	—			$	9,070		$	(6,131	)	$	—	$	2,939
Interest rate swaps		4,727				—				4,727			(3,146		)	—		1,581
Cross currency basis swaps		8,728				—				8,728			(7,821		)	—		907
Total Assets		$	22,525			$	—			$	22,525		$	(17,098	)	$	—	$	5,427
													Gross Amounts Not Offset in the Consolidated Balance Sheets
(in thousands)		Gross Amounts Recognized				Gross Amount Offset in the Consolidated Balance Sheets				Net Amounts Presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheets			Financial Instruments			Cash Collateral Received/Pledged		Net Amount
Liabilities
Foreign exchange forward contracts		$	4,440			$	—			$	4,440		$	(2,339	)	$	—	$	2,101
Commodity contracts		95				—				95			—			—		95
DIO equity option contracts		153				—				153			—			—		153
Interest rate swaps		2,003				—				2,003			(1,339		)	—		664
Cross currency basis swaps		194,753				—				194,753			(13,420		)	—		181,333
Total Liabilities		$	201,444			$	—			$	201,444		$	(17,098	)	$	—	$	184,346
The following tables summarize the amount of gains (losses) recorded in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations related to the Company’s cash flow hedges for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012:
December 31, 2013
Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging		Gain (Loss)				Affected Line Item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations		Effective Portion
		in AOCI						Reclassified from
(in thousands)								AOCI into Income
Interest rate swaps		$	(166	)		Interest expense		$	(3,681	)
Foreign exchange forward contracts		(6,550		)		Cost of products sold		1,184
Foreign exchange forward contracts		(294		)		SG&A expenses		(147		)
Commodity contracts		(1,004		)		Cost of products sold		(288		)
Total		$	(8,014	)				$	(2,932	)
Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging		Affected Line Item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations		Ineffective Portion
				Recognized
(in thousands)				in Income
Foreign exchange forward contracts		Other expense (income), net		$	666
Commodity contracts		Interest expense		(56		)
Total				$	610
December 31, 2012
Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging		Gain (Loss)				Affected Line Item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations		Effective Portion
		in AOCI						Reclassified from
(in thousands)								AOCI into Income
Interest rate swaps		$	(1,987	)		Interest expense		$	(3,611	)
Foreign exchange forward contracts		1,027				Cost of products sold		8,029
Foreign exchange forward contracts		80				SG&A expenses		779
Commodity contracts		472				Cost of products sold		136
Total		$	(408	)				$	5,333
Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging		Affected Line Item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations		Ineffective Portion
				Recognized
(in thousands)				in Income
Foreign exchange forward contracts		Other expense (income), net		$	915
Commodity contracts		Interest expense		(25		)
Total				$	890
The following tables summarize the amount of gains (losses) recorded in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations related to the Company’s hedges of net investments for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012:
December 31, 2013
Derivatives in Net Investment Hedging		Gain (Loss)				Affected Line Item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations		Gain (Loss)
		in AOCI						Recognized
(in thousands)								in Income
Cross currency basis swaps		$	(36,035	)		Interest income		$	4,771
						Interest expense		1,432
Foreign exchange forward contracts		(5,419		)		Other expense (income), net		284
Total		$	(41,454	)				$	6,487
December 31, 2012
Derivatives in Net Investment Hedging		Gain (Loss)				Affected Line Item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations		Gain (Loss)
		in AOCI						Recognized
(in thousands)								in Income
Cross currency basis swaps		$	(34,216	)		Interest income		$	4,264
						Interest expense		(1,885		)
Total		$	(34,216	)				$	2,379
The following tables summarize the amount of gains (losses) recorded in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations related to the Company’s hedges of fair value for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012:
Derivatives in Fair Value Hedging				Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income
		Affected Line Item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations
(in thousands)				2013				2012
Interest rate swaps		Interest expense		$	320			$	2,284
Total				$	320			$	2,284
The following table summarizes the amounts of gains (losses) recorded in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations related to the Company’s hedges not designated as hedging for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012:
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging				Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income
		Affected Line Item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations
(in thousands)				2013				2012
Foreign exchange forward contracts (a)		Other expense (income), net		$	6,733			$	(1,224	)
DIO equity option contracts		Other expense (income), net		17				272
Interest rate swaps		Interest expense		6				(155		)
Cross currency basis swaps (a)		Other expense (income), net		15,483				12,323
Total				$	22,239			$	11,216
(a) The gains and losses on these derivative transactions offset the gains and losses generated by the revaluation of the underlying non-functional currency balances which are recorded in “Other expense (income), net” on the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Amounts recorded in AOCI related to cash flow hedging instruments at:
	December 31,
(in thousands, net of tax)	2013				2012
Beginning balance	$	(17,481	)		$	(12,737	)
Changes in fair value of derivatives	(6,234		)		105
Reclassifications to earnings from equity	1,964				(4,849		)
Total activity	(4,270		)		(4,744		)
Ending balance	$	(21,751	)		$	(17,481	)
Amounts recorded in AOCI related to hedges of net investments in foreign operations at:
	December 31,
(in thousands, net of tax)	2013				2012
Beginning balance	$	(71,358	)		$	(143,730	)
Foreign currency translation adjustment	72,159				83,283
Changes in fair value of:
Foreign currency debt	14,531				10,097
Derivative hedge instruments	(25,453		)		(21,008		)
Total activity	61,237				72,372
Ending balance	$	(10,121	)		$	(71,358	)

FAIR_VALUE_MEASUREMENT

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Notes to Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT	'
	FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT
	The Company records financial instruments at fair value with unrealized gains and losses related to certain financial instruments reflected in AOCI on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.  In addition, the Company recognizes certain liabilities at fair value. The Company applies the market approach for recurring fair value measurements. Accordingly, the Company utilizes valuation techniques that maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs.
	The fair value of financial instruments is determined by reference to various market data and other valuation techniques as appropriate. The Company believes the carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable (net of allowance for doubtful accounts), prepaid expenses and other current assets, accounts payable, accrued liabilities, income taxes payable and notes payable approximate fair value due to the short-term nature of these instruments.  The Company estimated the fair value and carrying value of its total long-term debt, including current portion, was $1,387.7 million and $1,370.8 million, respectively, at December 31, 2013.   At December 31, 2012, the Company estimated the fair value and carrying value was $1,515.2 million and $1,472.9 million, respectively.  The interest rate on the $450.0 million Senior Notes, the $300.0 million Senior Notes, and the $250.0 million Private Placement Notes are fixed rates of 4.2%, 2.8% and 4.1%, respectively, and their fair value is based on the interest rates at December 31, 2013. The interest rates on variable rate term loan debt and commercial paper are consistent with current market conditions, therefore the fair value of these instruments approximates their carrying values.
	The following tables set forth by level within the fair value hierarchy the Company’s financial assets and liabilities that were accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis at December 31, 2013 and 2012, which are classified as “Cash and cash equivalents,” “Prepaid expenses and other current assets,” “Long-Term investments,” “Other noncurrent assets, net,” “Accrued liabilities,” and “Other noncurrent liabilities” on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.  Financial assets and liabilities that are recorded at fair value as of the balance sheet date are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement.
		December 31, 2013
	(in thousands)	Total			Level 1			Level 2		Level 3
	Assets
	Interest rate swaps	$	2,406		$	—		$	2,406	$	—
	Commodity contracts	1			—			1		—
	Cross currency basis swaps	530			—			530		—
	Foreign exchange forward contracts	4,900			—			4,900		—
	Corporate convertible bonds	70,019			—			—		70,019
	Total assets	$	77,856		$	—		$	7,837	$	70,019
	Liabilities
	Interest rate swaps	$	1,226		$	—		$	1,226	$	—
	Commodity contracts	435			—			435		—
	Cross currency basis swaps	59,128			—			59,128		—
	Foreign exchange forward contracts	13,548			—			13,548		—
	Long-term debt	152,370			—			152,370		—
	DIO equity option contracts	142			—			—		142
	Total liabilities	$	226,849		$	—		$	226,707	$	142
		December 31, 2012
	(in thousands)	Total			Level 1			Level 2		Level 3
	Assets
	Interest rate swaps	$	4,727		$	—		$	4,727	$	—
	Cross currency basis swaps	8,728			—			8,728		—
	Foreign exchange forward contracts	9,070			—			9,070		—
	Corporate convertible bonds	75,143			—			—		75,143
	Total assets	$	97,668		$	—		$	22,525	$	75,143
	Liabilities
	Interest rate swaps	$	2,003		$	—		$	2,003	$	—
	Commodity contracts	95			—			95		—
	Cross currency basis swaps	194,753			—			194,753		—
	Foreign exchange forward contracts	4,440			—			4,440		—
	Long-term debt	154,560			—			154,560		—
	DIO equity option contracts	153			$	—		—		153
	Total liabilities	$	356,004		$	—		$	355,851	$	153
	Derivative valuations are based on observable inputs to the valuation model including interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, future commodities prices and credit risks. The commodity contracts, certain interest rate swaps and foreign exchange forward contracts are considered cash flow hedges and certain cross currency interest rate swaps are considered hedges of net investment in foreign operations as discussed in Note 17, Financial Instruments and Derivatives.
	The Company uses the income method valuation technique to estimate the fair value of the corporate bonds. The significant unobservable inputs for valuing the corporate bonds are DIO Corporation’s stock volatility factor of approximately 40% and corporate bond rating which implies an approximately 15% discount rate on the valuation model. Significant observable inputs used to value the corporate bonds include foreign exchange rates and DIO Corporation’s period-ending market stock price.
	The Company has valued the DIO equity option contracts using a Monte Carlo simulation which uses several estimates and probability assumptions by management including the future stock price, the stock price as a multiple of DIO earnings and the probability of the sellers to reduce their shares held by selling into the open market. Changes in the fair value of the DIO equity option contracts are reported in “Other expense (income), net” on the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
	For the year ended December 31, 2013, there were no purchases, issuances or transfers of Level 3 financial instruments.
	The following table presents a reconciliation of the Company’s Level 3 holdings measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs:
		Corporate			DIO Equity
	(in thousands)	Convertible			Options
		Bonds			Contracts
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	75,143		$	(153	)
	Unrealized loss:
	Reported in AOCI	(7,592		)	—
	Unrealized gain:
	Reported in other expense (income), net	—			17
	Effect of exchange rate changes	2,468			(6		)
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	70,019		$	(142	)

COMMITMENTS_AND_CONTINGENCIES

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES	'
	COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
	Leases
	The Company leases automobiles and machinery and equipment and certain office, warehouse and manufacturing facilities under non-cancellable leases. The leases generally require the Company to pay insurance, taxes and other expenses related to the leased property. Total rental expense for all operating leases was $39.7 million, $42.3 million and $39.0 million for 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
	Rental commitments, principally for real estate (exclusive of taxes, insurance and maintenance), automobiles and office equipment are as follows:
	(in thousands)
	2014	$	35,002
	2015	25,679
	2016	20,496
	2017	16,475
	2018	14,350
	2019 and thereafter	20,149
		$	132,151
	Litigation
	On June 18, 2004, Marvin Weinstat, DDS and Richard Nathan, DDS filed a class action suit in San Francisco County, California alleging that the Company misrepresented that its Cavitron® ultrasonic scalers are suitable for use in oral surgical procedures.  The Complaint seeks a recall of the product and refund of its purchase price to dentists who have purchased it for use in oral surgery. The Court certified the case as a class action in June 2006 with respect to the breach of warranty and unfair business practices claims. The class that was certified is defined as California dental professionals who, at any time during the period beginning June 18, 2000 through September 14, 2012, purchased and used one or more Cavitron® ultrasonic scalers for the performance of oral surgical procedures on their patients, which Cavitrons® were accompanied by Directions for Use that “Indicated” Cavitron® use for “periodontal debridement for all types of periodontal disease.” The case went to trial in September 2013, and on January 22, 2014, the San Francisco Superior Court issued its decision in the Company’s favor, rejecting all of the plaintiffs’ claims.
	On December 12, 2006, a Complaint was filed by Carole Hildebrand, DDS and Robert Jaffin, DDS in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania (the Plaintiffs subsequently added Dr. Mitchell Goldman as a named class representative).  The case was filed by the same law firm that filed the Weinstat case in California.  The Complaint asserts putative class action claims on behalf of dentists located in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The Complaint seeks damages and asserts that the Company’s Cavitron® ultrasonic scaler was negligently designed and sold in breach of contract and warranty arising from misrepresentations about the potential uses of the product because it cannot assure the delivery of potable or sterile water. Following dismissal of the case for lack of jurisdiction, the plaintiffs filed a second complaint under the name of Dr. Hildebrand’s corporate practice, Center City Periodontists.. The Company’s motion to dismiss this new complaint was denied and the case will now proceed under the name “Center City Periodontists.” The Court subsequently granted the Company’s Motion and dismissed plaintiffs’ New Jersey Consumer Fraud and negligent design claims, leaving only a breach of express warranty claim. The plaintiffs have moved to have the case certified as a class action, to which the Company has objected and filed its brief.
	On January 20, 2014, the Company was served with a qui tam complaint filed by two former and one current employee of the Company under the Federal False Claims Act and equivalent state and city laws. The lawsuit was previously under seal in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania The complaint alleges, among other things, that the Company engaged in various illegal marketing activities, and thereby caused dental and other healthcare professionals to file false claims for reimbursement with Federal and State governments. The relators seek injunctive relief, fines, treble damages, and attorneys’ fees and costs. On January 27, 2014, the United States filed with the Court a notice that it had elected not to intervene in the qui tam action at this time. The United States’ notice indicated that the named state and city co-plaintiffs had authorized the United States to communicate to the Court that they also had decided not to intervene at this time. These non-intervention decisions do not prevent the qui tam relators from litigating this action, and the United States and/or the named states and/or cities may seek to intervene in the action at a later time. The Company is reviewing the allegations in the complaint and intends to vigorously defend itself in the litigation.
	The Company does not believe a loss is probable related to the above litigation. Further a reasonable estimate of a possible range of loss cannot be made.  In the event that one or more of these matters is unfavorably resolved, it is possible the Company’s results from operations could be materially impacted.
	In 2012, the Company received subpoenas from the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana (the “USAO”) and from the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the United States Department of the Treasury (“OFAC”) requesting documents and information related to compliance with export controls and economic sanctions regulations by certain of its subsidiaries. The Company has voluntarily contacted OFAC and the Bureau of Industry and Security of the United States Department of Commerce (“BIS”), in connection with these matters as well as regarding compliance with export controls and economic sanctions regulations by certain other business units of the Company identified in connection with an ongoing internal review by the Company. The Company is cooperating with the USAO, OFAC and BIS with respect to these matters.
	At this stage of the inquiries, the Company is unable to predict the ultimate outcome of these matters or what impact, if any, the outcome of these matters might have on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. Violations of export control or economic sanctions laws or regulations could result in a range of governmental enforcement actions, including fines or penalties, injunctions and/or criminal or other civil proceedings, which actions could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s reputation, business, financial condition and results of operations. At this time, no claims have been made against the Company.
	In addition to the matters disclosed above, the Company is, from time to time, subject to a variety of litigation and similar proceedings incidental to its business.  These legal matters primarily involve claims for damages arising out of the use of the Company’s products and services and claims relating to intellectual property matters including patent infringement, employment matters, tax matters, commercial disputes, competition and sales and trading practices, personal injury and insurance coverage. The Company may also become subject to lawsuits as a result of past or future acquisitions or as a result of liabilities retained from, or representations, warranties or indemnities provided in connection with, divested businesses.  Some of these lawsuits may include claims for punitive and consequential, as well as compensatory damages. Based upon the Company’s experience, current information and applicable law, it does not believe that these proceedings and claims will have a material adverse effect on its consolidated results of operations, financial position or liquidity. However, in the event of unexpected further developments, it is possible that the ultimate resolution of these matters, or other similar matters, if unfavorable, may be materially adverse to the Company’s business, financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.
	While the Company maintains general, products, property, workers’ compensation, automobile, cargo, aviation, crime, fiduciary and directors’ and officers’ liability insurance up to certain limits that cover certain of these claims, this insurance may be insufficient or unavailable to cover such losses.  In addition, while the Company believes it is entitled to indemnification from third parties for some of these claims, these rights may also be insufficient or unavailable to cover such losses.
	Purchase and Other Commitments
	From time to time, the Company enters into long-term inventory purchase commitments with minimum purchase requirements for raw materials and finished goods to ensure the availability of products for production and distribution. These commitments may have a significant impact on levels of inventory maintained by the Company.
	The Company has employment agreements with its executive officers. These agreements generally provide for salary continuation for a specified number of months under certain circumstances. If all of the employees under contract were to be terminated by the Company without cause, as defined in the agreements, the Company’s liability would be approximately $15.8 million at December 31, 2013.
	The Company is required to complete the purchase of the remaining shares of one VIE, acquired in 2008, during 2014. The final purchase price is subject to adjustments but is currently expected to be approximately 62.0 million euros.

Disclosure_Schedule_II_Valuati

Disclosure - Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure	'
	SCHEDULE II
	VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
	FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011
				Additions
	(in thousands)	Balance at		Charged			Charged to				Write-offs			Translation			Balance
		Beginning		(Credited)			Other				Net of			Adjustment			at End
		of Period		To Costs			Accounts				Recoveries						of Period
	Description			And Expenses
	Allowance for doubtful accounts:
	For Year Ended December 31,
	2011	$	8,820	$	469		$	7,930		(a)	$	(1,373	)	$	(941	)	$	14,905
	2012	14,905		2,409			115				(3,798		)	16			13,647
	2013	13,647		2,949			(231		)		(2,521		)	369			14,213
	Inventory valuation reserves:
	For Year Ended December 31,
	2011	$	35,469	$	3,325		$	697		(b)	$	(3,924	)	$	(463	)	$	35,104
	2012	35,104		2,500			(78		)		(4,673		)	(292		)	32,561
	2013	32,561		4,663			(54		)		(2,521		)	(410		)	34,239
	Deferred tax asset valuation allowance:
	For Year Ended December 31,
	2011	$	93,054	$	(22,400	)	$	2,174		(c)	$	—		$	(1,070	)	$	71,758
	2012	71,758		107,995			—				—			(54		)	179,699
	2013	179,699		49,251			—				—			(104		)	228,846
	(a) Amount includes $7.8 million allowance for Astra Tech opening balance at August 31, 2011.
	(b) Amount includes $1.1 million reserve for Astra Tech opening balance at August 31, 2011.
	(c) Amount related to opening balance sheet valuation allowance for Astra Tech at August 31, 2011.

PREPAIDS_EXPENSES_AND_OTHER_CU

PREPAIDS EXPENSES AND OTHER CURRENT ASSETS (Notes) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current	$157,487	$185,612
Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets	'	'
Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Current	86,929	80,903
Prepaid Expense, Current	36,129	54,881
Other Assets, Current	34,429	49,828
Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current	$157,487	$185,612

PREPAIDS_EXPENSES_AND_OTHER_CU1

PREPAIDS EXPENSES AND OTHER CURRENT ASSETS PPREPAIDS EXPENSES AND OTHER CURRENT ASSETS (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Other Current Assets [Text Block]	'
	PREPAID EXPENSES AND OTHER CURRENT ASSETS
	Prepaid expenses and other current assets consist of the following:
		December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013		2012
	Deferred taxes	$	86,929	$	80,903
	Prepaid expenses	36,129		54,881
	Other current assets	34,429		49,828
	Prepaid expenses and other current assets	$	157,487	$	185,612

SIGNIFICANT_ACCOUNTING_POLICIE1

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Notes to Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Description of New Accounting Pronouncements Not yet Adopted [Text Block]	'
	In March 2013, the FASB issued ASU No. 2013-05, “Foreign Currency Matters (Topic 830): Parent’s Accounting for the Cumulative Translation Adjustment upon Derecognition of Certain Subsidiaries or Groups of Assets within a Foreign Entity or of an Investment in a Foreign Entity.” This newly issued accounting standard requires a cumulative translation adjustment (“CTA”) attached to the parent’s investment in a foreign entity should be released in a manner consistent with the derecognition guidance on investment entities. Thus the entire amount of CTA associated with the foreign entity would be released when there has been a sale of a subsidiary or group of net assets within a foreign entity and the sale represents a complete liquidation of the investment in the foreign entity, a loss of a controlling financial interest in an investment in a foreign entity, or step acquisition for a foreign entity. The adoption of this standard is not expected to materially impact the Company’s financial position or results of operations. The Company expects to adopt this accounting standard for the quarter ending March 31, 2014.
	In July 2013, the FASB issued ASU No. 2013-11, “Income Taxes (Topic 740): Presentation of a Unrecognized Tax Benefit when a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists.” The newly issued accounting standard requires the netting of unrecognized tax benefits against a deferred tax asset for a loss or other carryforward that would apply in settlement of the uncertain tax positions. Under the new standard, unrecognized tax benefits will be netted against all available same-jurisdiction losses or other tax carryforwards that would be utilized, rather than only against carryforwards that are created by the unrecognized tax benefit. The adoption of this standard is not expected to materially impact the Company’s financial position or results of operations. The Company expects to adopt this accounting standard for the quarter ending March 31, 2014.
Use Of Estimates	'
	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“US GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expense during the reporting period.  Actual results could differ from those estimates, and such differences may be material to the consolidated financial statements.
Principles of Consolidation	'
	Principles of Consolidation
	The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company. The Company also consolidates all variable interest entities (“VIE”) where the Company has determined that it has the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance and shares in either the significant risks or rewards of the VIE. The Company continually reassesses its VIE to determine if consolidation is appropriate. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated in consolidation.
	Investments in nonconsolidated affiliates (20-50 percent owned companies, joint ventures and partnerships as well as less than 20 percent ownership positions where the Company maintains significant influence over the subsidiary) are accounted for using the equity method.
	The accompanying audited Consolidated Statements of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2011 include the results of operations for Astra Tech AB (“Astra Tech”) for the period September 1, 2011 to December 31, 2011.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	'
	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	Cash and cash equivalents include deposits with banks as well as highly liquid time deposits with maturities at the date of purchase of ninety days or less.
Short-term Investments	'
	Short-term Investments
	Short-term investments are highly liquid time deposits with original maturities at the date of purchase greater than ninety days and with remaining maturities of one year or less.
Accounts and Notes Receivable-Trade	'
	Accounts and Notes Receivable-Trade
	The Company sells dental and certain medical products through a worldwide network of distributors and directly to end users.  For customers on credit terms, the Company performs ongoing credit evaluation of those customers’ financial condition and generally does not require collateral from them.  The Company establishes allowances for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of its customers to make required payments.  The Company records a provision for doubtful accounts, which is included in “Selling, general and administrative expenses” in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Inventories	'
	Inventories
	Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market.  At December 31, 2013 and 2012, the cost of $6.5 million and $6.3 million, respectively, of inventories was determined by the last in, first-out (“LIFO”) method.  The cost of other inventories was determined by the first-in, first-out (“FIFO”) or average cost methods.  The Company establishes reserves for inventory estimated to be obsolete or unmarketable equal to the difference between the cost of inventory and estimated market value based upon assumptions about future demand and market conditions.
	If the FIFO method had been used to determine the cost of LIFO inventories, the amounts at which net inventories are stated would be higher than reported at December 31, 2013 and 2012 by $5.9 million and $5.9 million, respectively.
Valuation of Goodwill and Other Long-Lived Assets	'
	Valuation of Goodwill and Other Long-Lived Assets
	Assessment of the potential impairment of goodwill and other long-lived assets is an integral part of the Company’s normal ongoing review of operations. Testing for potential impairment of these assets is significantly dependent on assumptions and reflects management’s best estimates at a particular point in time. The dynamic economic environments in which the Company’s businesses operate and key economic and business assumptions with respect to projected selling prices, increased competition and introductions of new technologies can significantly affect the outcome of impairment tests. Estimates based on these assumptions may differ significantly from actual results. Changes in factors and assumptions used in assessing potential impairments can have a significant impact on the existence and magnitude of impairments, as well as the time at which such impairments are recognized. If there are unfavorable changes in these assumptions, future cash flows, a key variable in assessing the impairment of these assets, may decrease and as a result the Company may be required to recognize impairment charges. Future changes in the environment and the economic outlook for the assets being evaluated could also result in additional impairment charges being recognized. The following information outlines the Company’s significant accounting policies on long-lived assets by type.
	Goodwill
	Goodwill is the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of identifiable net assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination. Goodwill is not amortized. Goodwill is tested for impairment annually, during the Company’s second quarter, or when indications of potential impairment exist. The Company monitors for the existence of potential impairment throughout the year.  This impairment assessment includes an evaluation of various reporting units, which is an operating segment or one reporting level below the operating segment. The Company performs impairment tests using a fair value approach. The Company compares the fair value of each reporting unit to its carrying amount to determine if there is potential goodwill impairment. If impairment is identified on goodwill, the resulting charge is determined by recalculating goodwill through a hypothetical purchase price allocation of the fair value and reducing the current carrying value to the extent it exceeds the recalculated goodwill.
	The Company’s fair value approach involves using a discounted cash flow model with market-based support as its valuation technique to measure the fair value for its reporting units. The discounted cash flow model uses five-year forecasted cash flows plus a terminal value based on a multiple of earnings. In addition, the Company applies gross profit and operating expense assumptions consistent with its historical trends. The total cash flows were discounted based on market participant data, which included the Company’s weighted-average cost of capital. The Company considered the current market conditions when determining its assumptions. Lastly, the Company reconciled the aggregate fair values of its reporting units to its market capitalization, which included a reasonable control premium based on market conditions. Additional information related to the testing for goodwill impairment is provided in Note 9, Goodwill and Intangible Assets.
	Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
	Indefinite-lived intangible assets consist of tradenames and are not subject to amortization. Valuations of identifiable intangibles assets acquired are based on information and assumptions available at the time of acquisition, using income and market model approaches to determine fair value. In-process research and development assets are not subject to amortization until the product associated with the research and development is substantially complete and is a viable product. At that time, the useful life to amortize the intangible asset is determined by identifying the period in which substantially all the cash flows are expected to be generated and the asset is moved to definite-lived.
	These assets are reviewed for impairment annually or whenever events or circumstances suggest that the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable. The Company uses an income approach, more specifically a relief from royalty method. Significant management judgment is necessary to determine key assumptions, including projected revenue, royalty rates and appropriate discount rates. Royalty rates used are consistent with those assumed for the original purchase accounting valuation. Other assumptions are consistent with those applied to goodwill impairment testing. If the carrying value exceeds the fair value, an impairment loss in the amount equal to the excess is recognized.
	Identifiable Definite-Lived Intangible Assets
	Identifiable definite-lived intangible assets, which primarily consist of patents, trademarks, brand names, non-compete agreements and licensing agreements, are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives. Valuations of identifiable intangibles assets acquired are based on information and assumptions available at the time of acquisition, using income and market model approaches to determine fair value.
	These assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or circumstances suggest that the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable.  The Company closely monitors certain intangible assets related to new and existing technologies for indicators of impairment as these assets have more risk of becoming impaired.  Impairment is based upon an initial evaluation of the identifiable undiscounted cash flows.  If the initial evaluation identifies a potential impairment, a fair value is determined by using a discounted cash flows valuation.  If impaired, the resulting charge reflects the excess of the asset’s carrying cost over its fair value.
	Property, Plant and Equipment
	Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation.  Except for leasehold improvements, depreciation for financial reporting purposes is computed by the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives: buildings - generally 40 years and machinery and equipment - 4 to 15 years.  The cost of leasehold improvements is amortized over the shorter of the estimated useful life or the term of the lease.  Maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred to the statement of operations; replacements and major improvements are capitalized.  These assets groups are reviewed for impairment whenever events or circumstances suggest that the carrying amount of the asset group may not be recoverable.  Impairment is based upon an evaluation of the identifiable undiscounted cash flows.  If impaired, the resulting charge reflects the excess of the asset group’s carrying cost over its fair value.
Marketable Security	'
	Marketable Securities
	The Company’s marketable securities consist of debt instruments that are classified as available-for-sale in “Other noncurrent assets, net” on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as the instruments mature in December 2015. The Company determined the appropriate classification at the time of purchase and will re-evaluate such designation as of each balance sheet date. In addition, the Company reviews the securities each quarter for indications of possible impairment. Once identified, the determination of whether the impairment is temporary or other-than-temporary requires significant judgment. The primary factors that the Company considers in classifying the impairment include the extent and time the fair value of each investment has been below cost and the existence of a credit loss. If a decline in fair value is judged other-than-temporary, the basis of the securities is written down to fair value and the amount of the write-down is included as a realized loss.
Derivative Financial Instruments	'
	Derivative Financial Instruments
	The Company records all derivative instruments on the consolidated balance sheet at fair value and changes in fair value are recorded each period in the consolidated statements of operations or accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”).
	The Company employs derivative financial instruments to hedge certain anticipated transactions, firm commitments, and assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies.  Additionally, the Company utilizes interest rate swaps to convert floating rate debt to fixed rate, fixed rate debt to floating rate, cross currency basis swaps to convert debt denominated in one currency to another currency, and commodity swaps to fix its variable raw materials costs.
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits	'
	Pension and Other Postemployment Benefits
	Some of the employees of the Company and its subsidiaries are covered by government or Company-sponsored defined benefit plans. Many of the employees have available to them defined contribution plans.  Additionally, certain union and salaried employee groups in the United States are covered by postemployment healthcare plans.  Costs for Company-sponsored defined benefit and postemployment benefit plans are based on expected return on plan assets, discount rates, employee compensation increase rates and health care cost trends.  Expected return on plan assets, discount rates and health care cost trend assumptions are particularly important when determining the Company’s benefit obligations and net periodic benefit costs associated with postemployment benefits.  Changes in these assumptions can impact the Company’s earnings before income taxes.  In determining the cost of postemployment benefits, certain assumptions are established annually to reflect market conditions and plan experience to appropriately reflect the expected costs as actuarially determined.  These assumptions include medical inflation trend rates, discount rates, employee turnover and mortality rates.  The Company predominantly uses liability durations in establishing its discount rates, which are observed from indices of high-grade corporate bond yields in the respective economic regions of the plans.  The expected return on plan assets is the weighted average long-term expected return based upon asset allocations and historic average returns for the markets where the assets are invested, principally in foreign locations.  The Company reports the funded status of its defined benefit pension and other postemployment benefit plans on its consolidated balance sheets as a net liability or asset.  Additional information related to the impact of changes in these assumptions is provided in Note 15, Benefit Plans.
Accruals for Self-Insured Losses	'
	Accruals for Self-Insured Losses
	The Company maintains insurance for certain risks, including workers’ compensation, general liability, product liability and vehicle liability, and is self-insured for employee related healthcare benefits.  The Company accrues for the expected costs associated with these risks by considering historical claims experience, demographic factors, severity factors and other relevant information.  Costs are recognized in the period the claim is incurred, and the financial statement accruals include an estimate of claims incurred but not yet reported.  The Company has stop-loss coverage to limit its exposure to any significant exposure on a per claim basis.
Litigation	'
	Litigation
	The Company and its subsidiaries are from time to time parties to lawsuits arising out of their respective operations. The Company records liabilities when a loss is probable and can be reasonably estimated. These estimates are typically in the form of ranges, and the Company records the liabilities at the low point of the ranges, when no other point within the ranges are a better estimate of the probable loss. The ranges established by management are based on analysis made by internal and external legal counsel who considers information known at the time. If the Company determines a liability to be only reasonably possible, it considers the same information to estimate the possible exposure and discloses any material potential liability. These loss contingencies are monitored regularly for a change in fact or circumstance that would require an accrual adjustment. The Company believes it has estimated liabilities for probable losses appropriately in the past; however, the unpredictability of litigation and court decisions could cause a liability to be incurred in excess of estimates. Legal costs related to these lawsuits are expensed as incurred.
Foreign Currency Translation	'
	Foreign Currency Translation
	The functional currency for foreign operations, except for those in highly inflationary economies, generally has been determined to be the local currency.
	Assets and liabilities of foreign subsidiaries are translated at foreign exchange rates on the balance sheet date; revenue and expenses are translated at the average year-to-date foreign exchange rates. The effects of these translation adjustments are reported in Equity within AOCI of the consolidated balance sheets. During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company had gains of $14.5 million on its loans designated as hedges of net investments and translation gains of $72.2 million. During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company had gains of $10.1 million on its loans designated as hedges of net investments and translation gains of $83.3 million.
	Foreign exchange gains and losses arising from transactions denominated in a currency other than the functional currency of the entity involved and remeasurement adjustments in countries with highly inflationary economies are included in income. Net foreign exchange transaction losses of $9.0 million, $2.7 million and $1.7 million in 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively, are included in “Other expense (income), net” on the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Revenue Recognition	'
	Revenue Recognition
	Revenue, net of related discounts and allowances, is recognized when the earnings process is complete. This occurs when products are shipped to or received by the customer in accordance with the terms of the agreement, title and risk of loss have been transferred, collectability is reasonably assured and pricing is fixed or determinable. Net sales include shipping and handling costs collected from customers in connection with the sale. Sales taxes, value added taxes and other similar types of taxes collected from customers in connection with the sale are recorded by the Company on a net basis and are not included in the consolidated statement of operations.
	Certain of the Company’s customers are offered cash rebates based on targeted sales increases. Estimates of rebates are based on the forecasted performance of the customer and their expected level of achievement within the rebate programs. In accounting for these rebate programs, the Company records an accrual as a reduction of net sales as sales take place over the period the rebate is earned. The Company revises the accruals for these rebate programs as actual results and revised forecasts impact the estimated achievement for customers within the rebate programs.
	A portion of the Company’s net sales is comprised of sales of precious metals generated through its precious metal dental alloy product offerings. As the precious metal content of the Company’s sales is largely a pass-through to customers, the Company uses its cost of precious metal purchased as a proxy for the precious metal content of sales, as the precious metal content of sales is not separately tracked and invoiced to customers. The Company believes that it is reasonable to use the cost of precious metal content purchased in this manner since precious metal alloy sale prices are typically adjusted when the prices of underlying precious metals change. The precious metals content of sales was $179.1 million, $213.7 million and $205.1 million for 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
Cost of Products Sold	'
	Cost of Products Sold
	Cost of products sold represents costs directly related to the manufacture and distribution of the Company’s products. Primary costs include raw materials, packaging, direct labor, overhead, shipping and handling, warehousing and the depreciation of manufacturing, warehousing and distribution facilities. Overhead and related expenses include salaries, wages, employee benefits, utilities, lease costs, maintenance and property taxes.
Warranties	'
	Warranties
	The Company provides warranties on certain equipment products. Estimated warranty costs are accrued when sales are made to customers. Estimates for warranty costs are based primarily on historical warranty claim experience. Warranty costs are included in “Cost of products sold” in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses	'
	Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
	Selling, general and administrative expenses represent costs incurred in generating revenues and in managing the business of the Company. Such costs include advertising and other marketing expenses, salaries, employee benefits, incentive compensation, research and development, travel, office expenses, lease costs, amortization of capitalized software and depreciation of administrative facilities.
Research and Development Costs	'
	Research and Development Costs
	Research and development (“R&D”) costs relate primarily to internal costs for salaries and direct overhead expenses. In addition, the Company contracts with outside vendors to conduct R&D activities. All such R&D costs are charged to expense when incurred. The Company capitalizes the costs of equipment that have general R&D uses and expenses such equipment that is solely for specific R&D projects. The depreciation expense related to this capitalized equipment is included in the Company’s R&D costs. R&D costs are included in “Selling, general and administrative expenses” in the Consolidated Statements of Operations
Stock Compensation	'
	Stock Compensation
	The Company recognizes the compensation cost relating to share-based payment transactions in the financial statements. The cost of share-based payment transactions is measured at the grant date, based on the calculated fair value of the award, and is recognized as an expense over the employee’s requisite service period (generally the vesting period of the equity awards). The compensation cost is only recognized for the portion of the awards that are expected to vest.
Income Taxes	'
	Income Taxes
	The Company’s tax expense includes U.S. and international income taxes plus the provision for U.S. taxes on undistributed earnings of international subsidiaries not deemed to be permanently invested. Tax credits and other incentives reduce tax expense in the year the credits are claimed. Certain items of income and expense are not reported in tax returns and financial statements in the same year. The tax effect of such temporary differences is reported as deferred income taxes. Deferred tax assets are recognized if it is more likely than not that the assets will be realized in future years. The Company establishes a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets for which realization is not likely.
	The Company applies a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. The Company recognizes in the financial statements, the impact of a tax position, if that position is more likely than not of being sustained on audit, based on the technical merits of the position.
Earnings Per Share	'
	Earnings Per Share
	Basic earnings per share are calculated by dividing net earnings by the weighted average number of shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per share is calculated by dividing net earnings by the weighted average number of shares outstanding for the period, adjusted for the effect of an assumed exercise of all dilutive options outstanding at the end of the period.
Business Acquisitions	'
	Business Acquisitions
	The Company acquires businesses as well as partial interests in businesses. Acquired businesses are accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting which requires the Company to record assets acquired and liabilities assumed at their respective fair values with the excess of the purchase price over estimated fair values recorded as goodwill. The assumptions made in determining the fair value of acquired assets and assumed liabilities as well as asset lives can materially impact the results of operations.
	The Company obtains information during due diligence and through other sources to establish respective fair values. Examples of factors and information that the Company uses to determine the fair values include: tangible and intangible asset evaluations and appraisals; evaluations of existing contingencies and liabilities and product line information. If the initial valuation for an acquisition is incomplete by the end of the quarter in which the acquisition occurred, the Company will record a provisional estimate in the financial statements. The provisional estimate will be finalized as soon as information becomes available but will only occur up to one year from the acquisition date.
Equity Method Investments	'
	Equity Method Investments
	Investments in partnerships, joint ventures and less-than-majority-owned subsidiaries in which the Company has significant influence are accounted for under the equity method.
	Equity investments are carried at original cost adjusted for the proportionate share of the investees’ income, losses and distributions. The Company assesses the carrying value of its equity investments when an indicator of a loss in value is present and records a loss in value of the investment when the assessment indicates that an other-than-temporary decline in the investment exists.
	The Company classifies its equity in net earnings of unconsolidated affiliates in the Consolidated Statements of Operations under the title of “Equity in net income (loss) of unconsolidated affiliated company.”
Noncontrolling Interests	'
	Noncontrolling Interests
	The Company reports noncontrolling interest (“NCI”) in a subsidiary as a separate component of Equity in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Additionally, the Company reports the portion of net income and comprehensive income (loss) attributed to the Company and NCI separately in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. The Company also includes a separate column for NCI in the Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity.
Variable Interest Entities	'
	Variable Interest Entities
	The Company consolidates all VIE where the Company has determined that it has the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance and shares in either the significant risks or rewards of the VIE. The Company continually reassesses VIE to determine if consolidation is appropriate. The Company continues to believe that it is the primary beneficiary of one entity under this accounting guidance.
Segment Reporting	'
	Segment Reporting
	The Company has numerous operating businesses covering a wide range of products and geographic regions, primarily serving the professional dental market and to a lesser extent the consumable medical device market. Professional dental products represented approximately 88%, 89%, and 93% of sales in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The Company has four reportable segments and a description of the activities of these segments is included in Note 5, Segment and Geographic Information.
	During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company realigned certain implant and implant related businesses as a result of changes to the business structure. These changes also helped the Company gain operating efficiencies and effectiveness. The segment information reflects the revised structure for all periods shown.
Fair Value Measurement	'
	Fair Value Measurement
	Recurring Basis
	The Company records certain financial assets and liabilities at fair value in accordance with the accounting guidance, which defines fair value as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. The accounting guidance establishes a hierarchal disclosure framework associated with the level of pricing observability utilized in measuring financial instruments at fair value. The three broad levels defined by the fair value hierarchy are as follows:
	Level 1 - Quoted prices are available in active markets for identical assets or liabilities as of the reported date.
	Level 2 - Pricing inputs are other than quoted prices in active markets, which are either directly or indirectly observable reported date. The nature of these financial instruments include, derivative instruments whose fair value have been derived using a model where inputs to the model are directly observable in the market, or can be derived principally from, or corroborated by observable market data.
	Level 3 - Instruments that have little to no pricing observability as of the reported date. These financial instruments do not have two-way markets and are measured using management’s best estimate of fair value, where the inputs into the determination of fair value require significant management judgment or estimation.
	The degree of judgment utilized in measuring the fair value of certain financial assets and liabilities generally correlates to the level of pricing observability. Pricing observability is impacted by a number of factors, including the type of financial instrument. Financial assets and liabilities with readily available active quoted prices or for which fair value can be measured from actively quoted prices generally will have a higher degree of pricing observability and a lesser degree of judgment utilized in measuring fair value. Conversely, financial assets and liabilities rarely traded or not quoted will generally have less, or no pricing observability and a higher degree of judgment utilized in measuring fair value.
	The Company primarily applies the market approach for recurring fair value measurements and endeavors to utilize the best available information. Accordingly, the Company utilizes valuation techniques that maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. Additionally, the Company considers its credit risks and its counterparties’ credit risks when determining the fair values of its financial assets and liabilities. The Company has presented the required disclosures in Note 18, Fair Value Measurement.
	Non-Recurring Basis
	When events or circumstances require an asset or liability to be fair valued that otherwise is generally recorded based on another valuation method, such as, net realizable value, the Company will utilize the valuation techniques described above.
Reclassification of Prior Year Amounts	'
	Reclassification of Prior Year Amounts
	Certain reclassifications have been made to prior years’ data in order to conform to current year presentation.
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	In December 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2011-11, “Balance Sheet (Topic 210): Disclosures about Offsetting Assets and Liabilities.” The standard requires entities to disclose both gross and net information about instruments and transactions that are offset in the Consolidated Balance Sheet, as well as instruments and transactions that are subject to an enforceable master netting agreement or similar agreement. In January 2013, The FASB issued ASU No. 2013-01, “Balance Sheet (Topic 210): Clarifying the Scope of Disclosures about Offsetting Assets and Liabilities.” The standard clarifies the scope of the disclosure to apply only to derivatives, including bifurcated embedded derivatives, repurchase and reverse repurchase agreements as well as securities lending and borrowing transactions. The standard was effective January 1, 2013, with retrospective application required. The adoption of this standard did not have a material impact to the Company’s financial statements. The Company adopted this accounting standard during the quarter ended March 31, 2013.
	In July 2012, the FASB issued ASU No. 2012-02, “Intangibles - Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Testing Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets for Impairment.” This newly issued accounting standard is intended to reduce the cost and complexity of the annual indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment test by providing entities an option to perform a qualitative assessment to determine whether further impairment testing is necessary. Under the revised standard, an entity has the option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to perform the current two-step impairment test. If an entity believes, as a result of its qualitative assessment, that it is more-likely-than-not that an indefinite-lived intangible asset is less than its carrying amount, the quantitative impairment test is required; otherwise, no further testing is required. Prior to the issuance of the revised standard, an entity was required to perform step one of the impairment test at least annually by calculating and comparing the fair value of an indefinite-lived intangible asset to its carrying amount. Under the revised standard, if an entity determines that step one is necessary and the indefinite-lived intangible asset is less than its carrying amount, then step two of the test will continue to be required to measure the amount of the impairment loss, if any. This ASU is effective for annual and interim indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment tests performed for fiscal years beginning after September 15, 2012. The adoption of this standard did not materially impact the Company’s financial position or results of operations. The Company adopted this accounting standard during the quarter ended March 31, 2013.
	In February 2013, the FASB issued ASU No. 2013-02, “Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reporting of Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income.” This newly issued accounting standard requires an entity to present, either on the face of the statement where net income is presented or in the notes, significant amounts reclassified out of AOCI by the respective line items of net income in its entirety in the same period. For other amounts not required to be reclassified to net income in the same reporting period, a cross reference to other disclosures that provide additional detail about the reclassification amounts is required. Since the standard only impacts the disclosure requirements of AOCI and does not impact the accounting for accumulated comprehensive income, the standard did not have an impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. The Company adopted this accounting standard during the quarter ended March 31, 2013.

SIGNIFICANT_ACCOUNTING_POLICIE2

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Notes to Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	'
	(in thousands)	Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments			Gains and (Loss) on Derivative Financial Instruments			Net Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Available-for-Sale Securities			Pension Liability Adjustments			Total
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	54,302		$	(143,142	)	$	17,822		$	(73,182	)	$	(144,200	)
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	86,690			(31,687		)	(5,093		)	19,478			69,388
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	—			1,962			—			3,788			5,750
	Net increase (decrease) in other comprehensive income	86,690			(29,725		)	(5,093		)	23,266			75,138
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	140,992		$	(172,867	)	$	12,729		$	(49,916	)	$	(69,062	)
	(in thousands)	Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments			Gains and (Loss) on Derivative Financial Instruments			Net Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Available-for-Sale Securities			Pension Liability Adjustments			Total
	Balance at December 31, 2011	$	(39,078	)	$	(117,390	)	$	(516	)	$	(33,986	)	$	(190,970	)
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	93,380			(20,903		)	18,338			(40,474		)	50,341
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	—			(4,849		)	—			1,278			(3,571		)
	Net increase (decrease) in other comprehensive income	93,380			(25,752		)	18,338			(39,196		)	46,770
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	54,302		$	(143,142	)	$	17,822		$	(73,182	)	$	(144,200	)

EARNINGS_PER_COMMON_SHARE_Tabl

EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
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		Shares	Earnings per
		attributable to			common share
		DENTSPLY
		International
	Year Ended December 31, 2013
	Basic	$	313,192	142,663	$	2.2
	Incremental shares from assumed exercise of dilutive options			2,302
	Diluted	$	313,192	144,965	$	2.16
	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	$	1.7

COMPREHENSIVE_INCOME_Tables

COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	'
	(in thousands)	Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments				Gains and (Loss) on Derivative Financial Instruments				Net Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Available-for-Sale Securities				Pension Liability Adjustments			Total
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	54,302			$	(143,142	)		$	17,822			$	(73,182	)	$	(144,200	)
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	86,690				(31,687		)		(5,093		)		19,478			69,388
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	—				1,962				—				3,788			5,750
	Net increase (decrease) in other comprehensive income	86,690				(29,725		)		(5,093		)		23,266			75,138
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	140,992			$	(172,867	)		$	12,729			$	(49,916	)	$	(69,062	)
	(in thousands)	Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments				Gains and (Loss) on Derivative Financial Instruments				Net Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Available-for-Sale Securities				Pension Liability Adjustments			Total
	Balance at December 31, 2011	$	(39,078	)		$	(117,390	)		$	(516	)		$	(33,986	)	$	(190,970	)
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	93,380				(20,903		)		18,338				(40,474		)	50,341
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	—				(4,849		)		—				1,278			(3,571		)
	Net increase (decrease) in other comprehensive income	93,380				(25,752		)		18,338				(39,196		)	46,770
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	54,302			$	(143,142	)		$	17,822			$	(73,182	)	$	(144,200	)
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block]	'
	(in thousands)
	Details about AOCI Components		Amounts Reclassified from AOCI											Affected Line Item in the
			Year Ended December, 31											Statements of Operations
			2013				2012				2011
	Gains and (loss) on derivative financial instruments:
	Interest rate swaps		$	(3,681	)		$	(3,611	)		$	(4,903	)	Interest expense
	Foreign exchange forward contracts		1,184				8,029				1,503			Cost of products sold
	Foreign exchange forward contracts		(147		)		779				39			SG&A expenses
	Commodity contracts		(288		)		136				273			Cost of products sold
			(2,932		)		5,333				(3,088		)	Net (loss) gain before tax
			970				(484		)		644			Tax benefit (expense)
			$	(1,962	)		$	4,849			$	(2,444	)	Net of tax
	Amortization of defined benefit pension and other postemployment benefit items:
	Amortization of prior service benefits		$	141			$	138			$	80		(a)
	Amortization of net actuarial losses		(5,532		)		(1,956		)		(1,773		)	(a)
			(5,391		)		(1,818		)		(1,693		)	Net loss before tax
			1,603				540				526			Tax benefit
			$	(3,788	)		$	(1,278	)		$	(1,167	)	Net of tax
	Total reclassifications for the period		$	(5,750	)		$	3,571			$	(3,611	)

BUSINESS_ACQUISITIONS_AND_INVE1

BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS AND INVESTMENTS IN AFFILIATES (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Notes to Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Pro forma Unaudited Financial Information	'
	The following unaudited pro forma financial information reflects the consolidated results of operations of the Company had the Astra Tech acquisition occurred on January 1, 2011. These amounts were calculated after conversion to US GAAP, applying the Company’s accounting policies and adjusting Astra Tech’s results to reflect the additional depreciation and amortization that would have been charged assuming the fair value adjustments to property, plant and equipment, inventory and intangible assets had been applied from January 1, 2011, together with the consequential tax effects at the statutory rate. These adjustments also reflect the additional interest expense incurred on the debt to finance the acquisition.
	(in thousands, except per share data)	Year Ended December 31,
		2011
	Net Sales	$	2,918,347
	Net income attributable to DENTSPLY	250,363
	Diluted earnings per common share	$	1.74

SEGMENT_AND_GEOGRAPHIC_INFORMA1

SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Net Sales	'
	The following table sets forth information about the Company’s segments for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011.
	Third Party Net Sales
	(in thousands)	2013			2012			2011
	Dental Consumable and Laboratory Businesses	$	991,694		$	993,624		$	992,406
	Orthodontics/Canada/Mexico/Japan	307,160			320,614			309,143
	Select Distribution Businesses	267,949			252,632			253,421
	Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim	1,388,152			1,365,231			987,778
	All Other (a)	(4,185		)	(3,672		)	(5,030		)
	Total net sales	$	2,950,770		$	2,928,429		$	2,537,718
	(a)	Includes amounts recorded at Corporate headquarters
Net Sales, Excluding Precious Metal Content	'
	Third Party Net Sales, Excluding Precious Metal Content
	(in thousands)	2013			2012			2011
	Dental Consumable and Laboratory Businesses	$	842,736		$	816,281		$	824,341
	Orthodontics/Canada/Mexico/Japan	278,994			286,680			276,228
	Select Distribution Businesses	267,300			252,064			252,539
	Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim	1,386,883			1,363,344			984,509
	All Other (b)	(4,185		)	(3,671		)	(5,030		)
	Total net sales, excluding precious metal content	$	2,771,728		$	2,714,698		$	2,332,587
	Precious metal content of sales	179,042			213,731			205,131
	Total net sales, including precious metal content	$	2,950,770		$	2,928,429		$	2,537,718
	(b)	Includes amounts recorded at Corporate headquarters
Intersegment Net Sales	'
	Intersegment Net Sales
	(in thousands)	2013			2012			2011
	Dental Consumable and Laboratory Businesses	$	172,827		$	173,194		$	167,621
	Orthodontics/Canada/Mexico/Japan	3,913			4,000			4,065
	Select Distribution Businesses	2,129			1,534			1,549
	Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim	143,455			139,460			158,724
	All Other (c)	243,127			221,867			211,658
	Eliminations	(565,451		)	(540,055		)	(543,617		)
	Total	$	—		$	—		$	—
	(c)	Includes amounts recorded at Corporate headquarters and one distribution warehouse not managed by named segments.
Depreciation and Amortization	'
	Depreciation and Amortization
	(in thousands)	2013			2012			2011
	Dental Consumable and Laboratory Businesses	$	31,137		$	33,855		$	34,575
	Orthodontics/Canada/Mexico/Japan	3,716			4,959			4,432
	Select Distribution Businesses	931			964			875
	Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim	90,175			86,900			42,546
	All Other (d)	1,944			2,521			2,607
	Total	$	127,903		$	129,199		$	85,035
	(d)	Includes amounts recorded at Corporate headquarters
Segment Operating Income	'
	Segment Operating Income (Loss)
	(in thousands)	2013			2012			2011
	Dental Consumable and Laboratory Businesses	$	229,566		$	223,702		$	209,353
	Orthodontics/Canada/Mexico/Japan	13,946			14,104			12,998
	Select Distribution Businesses	(1,005		)	(4,191		)	(1,358		)
	Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim	295,419			292,991			218,396
	All Other (e)	(105,404		)	(118,950		)	(102,796		)
	Segment Operating Income	$	432,522		$	407,656		$	336,593
	Reconciling Items:
	Restructuring and other costs	13,356			25,717			35,865
	Interest expense	49,625			56,851			43,814
	Interest income	(8,123		)	(8,760		)	(8,237		)
	Other expense (income), net	8,329			3,169			9,040
	Income before income taxes	$	369,335		$	330,679		$	256,111
	(e)	Includes results of Corporate headquarters, inter-segment eliminations and one distribution warehouse not managed by named segments. Amount recorded in 2011 includes $31.9 million of Astra Tech acquisition costs
Capital Expenditures	'
	Capital Expenditures
	(in thousands)	2013			2012			2011
	Dental Consumable and Laboratory Businesses	$	21,122		$	18,957		$	20,693
	Orthodontics/Canada/Mexico/Japan	14,423			9,071			7,494
	Select Distribution Businesses	1,377			657			1,123
	Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim	58,104			58,372			32,958
	All Other (f)	5,319			5,015			8,918
	Total	$	100,345		$	92,072		$	71,186
	(f)	Includes capital expenditures of Corporate headquarte
Assets	'
	.
	Assets
	(in thousands)	2013			2012
	Dental Consumable and Laboratory Businesses	$	961,989		$	1,007,307
	Orthodontics/Canada/Mexico/Japan	308,393			294,348
	Select Distribution Businesses	166,679			192,684
	Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim	3,450,670			3,195,382
	All Other (g)	190,316			282,576
	Total	$	5,078,047		$	4,972,297
	(g)	Includes assets of Corporate headquarters, inter-segment eliminations and one distribution warehouse not managed by named segmen
Company's Operations in Different Geographic Areas	'
	The following table sets forth information about the Company’s operations in different geographic areas for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011. Net sales reported below represent revenues for shipments made by operating businesses located in the country or territory identified, including export sales. Property, plant and equipment, net, represents those long-lived assets held by the operating businesses located in the respective geographic areas.
	(in thousands)	United			Germany			Sweden			Other		Consolidated
		States									Foreign
	2013
	Net sales	$	1,011,646		$	559,109		$	57,504		$	1,322,511	$	2,950,770
	Property, plant and equipment, net	158,673			129,685			134,083			214,731		637,172
	2012
	Net sales	$	993,980		$	546,092		$	54,507		$	1,333,850	$	2,928,429
	Property, plant and equipment, net	148,950			122,310			133,502			209,943		614,705
	2011
	Net sales	$	875,471		$	515,819		$	20,383		$	1,126,045	$	2,537,718
	Property, plant and equipment, net	137,871			118,229			150,167			185,178		591,445
Schedule of Sales by Product Category	'
	The following table presents net sales information by product category:

INVENTORIES_NET_Tables

INVENTORIES, NET (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Inventories, net	'
	Inventories, net, consist of the following:
		December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013		2012
	Finished goods	$	285,271	$	248,870
	Work-in-process	67,718		72,533
	Raw materials and supplies	85,570		81,537
	Inventories, net	$	438,559	$	402,940

PROPERTY_PLANT_AND_EQUIPMENT_N1

PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, NET (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Property, plant and equipment, net	'
	Property, plant and equipment, net, consist of the following:
		December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013		2012
	Assets, at cost:
	Land	$	47,616	$	45,561
	Buildings and improvements	427,826		409,451
	Machinery and equipment	907,541		848,331
	Construction in progress	59,583		50,647
		1,442,566		1,353,990
	Less: Accumulated depreciation	805,394		739,285
	Property, plant and equipment, net	$	637,172	$	614,705

GOODWILL_AND_INTANGIBLE_ASSETS1

GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Changes In Goodwill Table Text Block	'
	Impairments of identifiable definite-lived and indefinite-lived intangible assets for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 were $2.0 million, $5.2 million and $1.5 million, respectively, and are included in “Restructuring and other costs” on the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Reconciliation of Changes in the Company's Goodwill	'
	(in thousands)	Dental Consumable and Laboratory Businesses			Orthodontics/Canada/Mexico/Japan			Select Distribution Businesses			Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim		Total
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	488,206		$	102,065		$	92,473		$	1,528,209	$	2,210,953
	Acquisition activity	42,998			—			—			9,901		52,899
	Business unit transfers	(111,766		)	(4,365		)	(29,510		)	145,641		—
	Additional consideration for post closing adjustments	—			—			—			610		610
	Effect of exchange rate changes	1,844			(2,531		)	3,571			14,250		17,134
	Balance, at December 31, 2013	$	421,282		$	95,169		$	66,534		$	1,698,611	$	2,281,596
Identifiable Definite-Lived Intangible Assets	'
	Identifiable definite-lived and indefinite-lived intangible assets consist of the following:
		December 31, 2013									December 31, 2012
	(in thousands)	Gross			Accumulated			Net			Gross		Accumulated			Net
		Carrying			Amortization			Carrying			Carrying		Amortization			Carrying
		Amount						Amount			Amount					Amount
	Patents	$	181,847		$	(91,736	)	$	90,111		$	179,512	$	(81,390	)	$	98,122
	Trademarks	85,922			(35,994		)	49,928			83,073		(33,129		)	49,944
	Licensing agreements	31,950			(20,992		)	10,958			30,695		(18,966		)	11,729
	Customer relationships	497,108			(82,381		)	414,727			491,859		(50,632		)	441,227
	Total definite-lived	$	796,827		$	(231,103	)	$	565,724		$	785,139	$	(184,117	)	$	601,022
	Trademarks and In-process R&D	$	229,599		$	—		$	229,599		$	229,620	$	—		$	229,620
	Total identifiable intangible assets	$	1,026,426		$	(231,103	)	$	795,323		$	1,014,759	$	(184,117	)	$	830,642

ACCRUED_LIABILITIES_Tables

ACCRUED LIABILITIES (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Accrued Liabilities	'
	Accrued liabilities consist of the following:
		December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013		2012
	Payroll, commissions, bonuses, other cash compensation and employee benefits	$	101,274	$	96,206
	General insurance	12,178		12,204
	Sales and marketing programs	38,514		32,742
	Professional and legal costs	14,855		12,202
	Restructuring costs	8,608		14,452
	Warranty liabilities	3,608		3,693
	Deferred income	4,922		5,514
	Accrued vacation and holidays	29,944		29,804
	Third party royalties	11,494		11,288
	Current portion of derivatives	54,367		144,195
	Other	59,544		62,036
	Accrued liabilities	$	339,308	$	424,336

FINANCING_ARRANGEMENTS_Tables

FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Short-Term Borrowings	'
	Short-Term Debt
	Short-term debt consisted of the following:
			December 31,
			2013				2012
			Principal		Interest		Principal		Interest
	(in thousands)		Balance		Rate		Balance		Rate
	Bank overdrafts		$	1,429	1	%	$	123	—	%
	Corporate commercial paper facility		101,900		0.3	%	45,000		0.5	%
	Brazil short-term loans		1,314		2.8	%	1,000		2	%
	Other short-term loans		563		1.8	%	1,962		3.9	%
	Add: Current portion of long-term debt		204,656				250,878
	Total short-term debt		$	309,862			$	298,963
			2013				2012
	Maximum month-end short-term debt outstanding during the year		$	417,065			$	399,931
	Average amount of short-term debt outstanding during the year		$	318,817			$	248,318
	Weighted-average interest rate on short-term debt at year-end				1.6	%			0.6	%
Long-Term Borrowings	'
	Long-Term Debt
	Long-term debt consisted of the following:
			December 31,
			2013				2012
			Principal		Interest		Principal		Interest
	(in thousands)		Balance		Rate		Balance		Rate
	Floating rate senior notes $250 million due August 2013		$	—	—	%	$	250,000	1.8	%
	Term loan Japanese yen denominated due September 2014		119,213		1	%	144,681		1.1	%
	Private placement notes $250 million due February 2016		252,370		4.1	%	254,560		4.1	%
	Fixed rate senior notes $300 million due August 2016		299,775		2.8	%	299,689		2.8	%
	Term loan Swiss francs denominated due September 2016		72,829		1.1	%	71,027		1.2	%
	Term loan $175 million due August 2020		175,000		1.4	%	—		—	%
	Fixed rate senior notes $450 million due August 2021		448,809		4.2	%	448,653		4.2	%
	Other borrowings, various currencies and rates		2,838				4,303
			$	1,370,834			$	1,472,913
	Less: Current portion
	(included in notes payable and current portion of long-term debt)		204,656				250,878
	Long-term portion		$	1,166,178			$	1,222,035
Contractual Maturity Dates of Various Borrowings	'
	The table below reflects the contractual maturity dates of the various borrowings at December 31, 2013:
	(in thousands)
	2014	$	204,656
	2015	182,896
	2016	384,992
	2017	9,064
	2018	8,920
	2019 and beyond	580,306
		$	1,370,834

EQUITY_Tables

EQUITY (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Total Outstanding Shares	'
	The following table represents total outstanding shares for the years ended December 31:
	(in thousands)	Common			Treasury			Outstanding
		Shares			Shares			Shares
	Balance at December 31, 2010	162,776			(21,041	)		141,735
	Shares issued	—			2,084			2,084
	Repurchase of common stock at cost	—			(2,187	)		(2,187	)
	Balance at December 31, 2011	162,776			(21,144	)		141,632
	Shares issued	—			1,688			1,688
	Repurchase of common stock at cost	—			(998	)		(998	)
	Balance at December 31, 2012	162,776			(20,454	)		142,322
	Shares issued	—			2,605			2,605
	Repurchase of common stock at cost	—			(2,686	)		(2,686	)
	Balance at December 31, 2013	162,776			(20,535	)		142,241
Total Stock Based Compensation Expense and the Tax Related Benefit	'
	The following table represents total stock based compensation expense and the tax related benefit for the years ended:
		December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013				2012				2011
	Stock option expense	$	10,554			$	11,126			$	10,369
	RSU expense	13,059				9,644				9,243
	Total stock based compensation expense	$	23,613			$	20,770			$	19,612
	Related deferred income tax benefit	$	6,057			$	5,775			$	5,021
Assumptions Used to Determine Compensation Cost for the Company's Non-qualified Stock Options Issued	'
	The Company uses the Black-Scholes option-pricing model to estimate the fair value of each option awarded. The following table sets forth the assumptions used to determine compensation cost for the Company’s NQSO issued during the years ended:
		December 31,
		2013				2012				2011
	Weighted average fair value per share	$	9.3			$	8.91			$	8.86
	Expected dividend yield	0.53		%		0.57		%		0.55		%
	Risk-free interest rate	0.87		%		0.93		%		2.35		%
	Expected volatility	25		%		26		%		24		%
	Expected life (years)	4.98				5.1				5.07
Summary of the Non-qualified Stock Option Transactions	'
	The following table summarizes the NQSO transactions for the year ended December 31, 2013:
		Outstanding											Exercisable
	(in thousands, except per share amounts)	Shares			Weighted				Aggregate				Shares		Weighted				Aggregate
					Average				Intrinsic						Average				Intrinsic
					Exercise				Value						Exercise				Value
					Price										Price
	December 31, 2012	9,906			$	33.18			$	69,079			7,599		$	31.79			$	64,819
	Granted	923			40.63
	Exercised	(2,309	)		28.98
	Cancelled	(31	)		42.82
	Forfeited	(194	)		38.89
	December 31, 2013	8,295			$	35.04			$	111,450			6,225		$	33.67			$	92,200
Summary of Information about Non-qualified Stock Options Outstanding	'
	The following table summarizes information about NQSO outstanding for the year ended December 31, 2013:
						Outstanding								Exercisable
	(in thousands, except per share amounts and life)					Number			Weighted		Weighted			Number			Weighted
						Outstanding			Average		Average			Exercisable			Average
						at			Remaining		Exercise			at			Exercise
						December 31,			Contractual		Price			December 31,			Price
	Range of								Life
	Exercise Prices					2013			(in years)					2013
	20.01		-	30		1,938			3.6		$	26.83		1,938			$	26.83
	30.01		-	40		4,622			6.2		35.51			3,408			34.64
	40.01		-	50		1,735			6.5		42.98			879			44.97
						8,295			5.6		$	35.04		6,225			$	33.67
Summary of the Unvested RSU Transactions	'
	The following table summarizes the unvested RSU transactions for the year ended December 31, 2013:
		Unvested Restricted Stock Units
		Shares			Weighted Average
	(in thousands, except per share amounts)				Grant Date
					Fair Value
	Unvested at December 31, 2012	1,034			$	36.34
	Granted	506			40.92
	Vested	(248	)		32.8
	Forfeited	(161	)		38.82
	Unvested at December 31, 2013	1,131			$	38.81

INCOME_TAXES_Tables

INCOME TAXES (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Components of Income Before Income Taxes from Operations	'
	The components of income before income taxes from operations are as follows:
		December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013				2012				2011
	United States	$	58,383			$	67,668			$	7,041
	Foreign	310,952				263,011				249,070
		$	369,335			$	330,679			$	256,111
Components of the Provision for Income Taxes from Operations	'
	The components of the provision for income taxes from operations are as follows:
		December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013				2012				2011
	Current:
	U.S. federal	$	10,340			$	23,412			$	34,870
	U.S. state	4,660				2,788				5,151
	Foreign	66,306				69,954				59,397
	Total	$	81,306			$	96,154			$	99,418
	Deferred:
	U.S. federal	$	(28,941	)		$	(128,832	)		$	(29,664	)
	U.S. state	(1,377		)		11,730				(4,089		)
	Foreign	1,162				29,868				(54,649		)
	Total	$	(29,156	)		$	(87,234	)		$	(88,402	)
		$	52,150			$	8,920			$	11,016
Reconciliation of the U.S. Federal Statutory Tax Rate to the Effective Rate	'
	The reconciliation of the U.S. federal statutory tax rate to the effective rate for the years ended is as follows:
		December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Statutory U. S. federal income tax rate	35	%		35	%		35	%
	Effect of:
	State income taxes, net of federal benefit	0.7			0.7			0.3
	Federal benefit of R&D and foreign tax credits	(5.9	)		(7.2	)		(8.6	)
	Tax effect of international operations	(10.2	)		(7.4	)		(7.9	)
	Net effect of tax audit activity	1.9			(0.6	)		2.1
	Tax effect of enacted statutory rate changes	0.1			(3.7	)		0.2
	Federal tax on unremitted earnings of certain foreign subsidiaries	—			0.1			0.1
	Valuation allowance adjustments	(0.6	)		12			(18.1	)
	Tax effect of enacted U.S. federal legislation	(2.6	)		—			—
	Foreign outside basis differences	(1.5	)		(26.5	)		—
	Other	(2.8	)		0.3			1.2
	Effective income tax rate on operations	14.1	%		2.7	%		4.3	%
Tax Effect of Significant Temporary Differences Giving Rise to Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities	'
	The tax effect of significant temporary differences giving rise to deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows:
		December 31, 2013								December 31, 2012
	(in thousands)	Deferred				Deferred				Deferred			Deferred
		Tax				Tax				Tax			Tax
		Asset				Liability				Asset			Liability
	Commission and bonus accrual	$	5,793			$	—			$	2,529		$	—
	Employee benefit accruals	46,740				—				44,266			—
	Foreign outside basis difference	—				—				189,125			—
	Inventory	21,941				—				21,173			—
	Identifiable intangible assets	—				374,240				—			359,303
	Insurance premium accruals	4,402				—				4,381			—
	Miscellaneous accruals	10,089				—				12,685			—
	Other	35,734				—				15,844			—
	Unrealized losses included in AOCI	32,908				—				39,879			—
	Property, plant and equipment	—				49,368				—			51,020
	Product warranty accruals	1,069				—				1,154			—
	Foreign tax credit carryforward	48,450				—				—			—
	Restructuring and other cost accruals	956				—				1,048			—
	Sales and marketing accrual	5,768				—				4,480			—
	Taxes on unremitted earnings of foreign subsidiaries	—				2,506				—			2,556
	Tax loss carryforwards and other tax attributes	389,614				—				187,449			—
	Valuation allowance	(228,846		)		—				(179,699		)	—
		$	374,618			$	426,114			$	344,314		$	412,879
Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities Included in the Consolidated Balance Sheet	'
	Deferred tax assets and liabilities are included in the following consolidated balance sheet line items:
		December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013				2012
	Prepaid expenses and other current assets	$	86,929			$	80,903
	Income taxes payable	4,416				2,856
	Other noncurrent assets, net	104,385				86,029
	Deferred income taxes	238,394				232,641
Unrecognized Tax Benefits	'
	The Company had the following activity recorded for unrecognized tax benefits:
		December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013				2012				2011
	Unrecognized tax benefits at beginning of period	$	12,264			$	14,956			$	13,143
	Gross change for prior period positions	2,471				(3,029		)		1,425
	Gross change for current year positions	4,517				268				640
	Decrease due to settlements and payments	—				—				—
	Decrease due to statute expirations	(1,381		)		—				(123		)
	Increase due to effect of foreign currency translation	—				—				—
	Decrease due to effect from foreign currency translation	126				69				(129		)
	Unrecognized tax benefits at end of period	$	17,997			$	12,264			$	14,956

BENEFIT_PLANS_Tables

BENEFIT PLANS (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Reconciliations of Changes in the Defined Benefit and Postretirement Healthcare Plans' Benefit Obligations, Fair Value of Assets and Statement of Funded Status	'
	Reconciliations of changes in the defined benefit and postemployment healthcare plans’ benefit obligations, fair value of assets and statement of funded status are as follows:
										Other Postemployment
		Pension Benefits								Benefits
		December 31,								December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013				2012				2013			2012
	Change in Benefit Obligation
	Benefit obligation at beginning of year	$	355,766			$	270,607			$	14,218		$	12,217
	Service cost	14,863				12,178				234			195
	Interest cost	9,901				10,600				464			490
	Participant contributions	3,968				3,638				515			535
	Actuarial (gains) losses	(20,727		)		59,461				(2,708		)	1,601
	Plan amendments	—				(93		)		11			—
	Acquisitions/Divestitures	30				3,745				—			—
	Effect of exchange rate changes	8,248				8,100				—			—
	Foreign plan additions	—				540				—			—
	Foreign plan deletions	(524		)		—				—			—
	Plan curtailments	(1,669		)		(310		)		—			—
	Benefits paid	(10,440		)		(12,700		)		(798		)	(820		)
	Benefit obligation at end of year	$	359,416			$	355,766			$	11,936		$	14,218
	Change in Plan Assets
	Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	$	124,884			$	108,708			$	—		$	—
	Actual return on assets	9,658				10,732				—			—
	Effect of exchange rate changes	2,377				2,362				—			—
	Employer contributions	12,718				12,144				283			285
	Participant contributions	3,968				3,638				515			535
	Benefits paid	(10,440		)		(12,700		)		(798		)	(820		)
	Fair value of plan assets at end of year	$	143,165			$	124,884			$	—		$	—
	Funded status at end of year	$	(216,251	)		$	(230,882	)		$	(11,936	)	$	(14,218	)
Amounts Recognized in the Accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets, Net of Tax Effects	'
	The amounts recognized in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets, net of tax effects, are as follows:
		Pension Benefits								Other Postemployment
										Benefits
		December 31,								December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013				2012				2013			2012
	Other noncurrent assets, net	$	23			$	263			$	—		$	—
	Deferred tax asset	19,618				26,421				605			1,764
	Total assets	$	19,641			$	26,684			$	605		$	1,764
	Current liabilities	(5,097		)		(4,561		)		(491		)	(654		)
	Other noncurrent liabilities	(211,177		)		(226,584		)		(11,445		)	(13,564		)
	Deferred tax liability	(644		)		(449		)		—			—
	Total liabilities	$	(216,918	)		$	(231,594	)		$	(11,936	)	$	(14,218	)
	Accumulated other comprehensive income	48,957				70,377				961			2,805
	Net amount recognized	$	(148,320	)		$	(134,533	)		$	(10,370	)	$	(9,649	)
Amounts Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	'
	Amounts recognized in AOCI consist of:
										Other Postemployment
		Pension Benefits								Benefits
		December 31,								December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013				2012				2013			2012
	Net actuarial loss	$	70,615			$	99,129			$	1,557		$	4,569
	Net prior service cost	(2,684		)		(2,780		)		9			—
	Before tax AOCI	$	67,931			$	96,349			$	1,566		$	4,569
	Less: Deferred taxes	18,974				25,972				605			1,764
	Net of tax AOCI	$	48,957			$	70,377			$	961		$	2,805
Information for Pension Plans with an Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets	'
	Information for pension plans with an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets:
		December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013				2012
	Projected benefit obligation	$	357,459			$	344,653
	Accumulated benefit obligation	330,215				315,963
	Fair value of plan assets	141,186				117,413
Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost	'
	Components of net periodic benefit cost:
		Pension Benefits											Other Postemployment
													Benefits
	(in thousands)	2013				2012				2011			2013				2012			2011
	Service cost	$	14,863			$	12,178			$	10,950		$	234			$	195		$	61
	Interest cost	9,901				10,600				9,633			464				490			553
	Expected return on assets	(4,998		)		(4,727		)		(5,184		)	—				—			—
	Amortization of prior service cost (credit)	(133		)		(138		)		80			2				—			—
	Amortization of net actuarial loss	5,150				1,995				1,584			303				264			189
	Curtailment and settlement gains	(1,600		)		(303		)		4			—				—			—
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	23,183			$	19,605			$	17,067		$	1,003			$	949		$	803
Other Changes in Plan Assets and Benefit Obligations Recognized in AOCI	'
	Other changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in AOCI:
		Pension Benefits											Other Postemployment
													Benefits
	(in thousands)	2013				2012				2011			2013				2012			2011
	Net actuarial (gain) loss	$	(23,364	)		$	55,662			$	8,352		$	(2,709	)		$	1,601		$	537
	Net prior service (credit)	(37		)		(161		)		(2,845		)	11				—			—
	Amortization	(5,017		)		(1,857		)		(1,664		)	(305		)		(264		)	(189		)
	Total recognized in AOCI	$	(28,418	)		$	53,644			$	3,843		$	(3,003	)		$	1,337		$	348
	Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and AOCI	$	(5,235	)		$	73,249			$	20,910		$	(2,000	)		$	2,286		$	1,151
Amounts in AOCI that are Expected to be Amortized as Net Expense (Income) During Next Fiscal Year	'
	The amounts in AOCI that are expected to be amortized as net expense (income) during fiscal year 2014 are as follows:
	(in thousands)	Pension				Other Postemployment
		Benefits				Benefits
	Amount of net prior service cost (credit)	$	(138	)		$	2
	Amount of net loss	2,838				43
Weighted Average Assumptions Used to Determine Benefit Obligations, Principally in Foreign Locations	'
	The weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations for the Company’s plans, principally in foreign locations, at December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 are as follows:
		Pension Benefits									Other Postemployment
											Benefits
		2013			2012			2011			2013		2012			2011
	Discount rate	3.2	%		2.8	%		4	%		4.8	%	3.5	%		4	%
	Rate of compensation increase	2.7	%		2.7	%		2.8	%		n/a		n/a			n/a
	Health care cost trend	n/a			n/a			n/a			8.5	%	8	%		7.5	%
	Ultimate health care cost trend	n/a			n/a			n/a			5	%	5	%		5	%
	Years until ultimate trend is reached	n/a			n/a			n/a			8		7			6
Weighted Average Assumptions Used to Determine Net Periodic Benefit Cost	'
	The weighted average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost for the Company’s plans, principally in foreign locations, for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 are as follows:
		Pension Benefits									Other Postemployment
											Benefits
		2013			2012			2011			2013		2012			2011
	Discount rate	2.8	%		4	%		4.1	%		3.5	%	4	%		5	%
	Expected return on plan assets	4.3	%		4.1	%		4.8	%		n/a		n/a			n/a
	Rate of compensation increase	2.7	%		2.8	%		2.6	%		n/a		n/a			n/a
	Health care cost trend	n/a			n/a			n/a			8.5	%	8	%		7.5	%
	Ultimate health care cost trend	n/a			n/a			n/a			5	%	5	%		5	%
	Years until ultimate trend is reached	n/a			n/a			n/a			8		7			6
	Measurement Date	12/31/13			12/31/12			12/31/11			12/31/13		12/31/12			12/31/11
Effect of One Percentage Point in Assumed Healthcare Cost Trend Rates	'
	Assumed health care cost trend rates have an impact on the amounts reported for postemployment benefits. An ongoing one percentage point change in assumed healthcare cost trend rates would have had the following effects for the year ended December 31, 2013:
		Other Postemployment
		Benefits
	(in thousands)	1% Increase				1% Decrease
	Effect on total of service and interest cost components	$	161			$	(123	)
	Effect on postemployment benefit obligation	2,104				(1,656		)
Fair Value Measurements of Plan Assets	'
	The fair value of the Company’s pension plan assets at December 31, 2013 is presented in the table below by asset category. Approximately 82% of the total plan assets are categorized as Level 1, and therefore, the values assigned to these pension assets are based on quoted prices available in active markets.  For the other category levels, a description of the valuation is provided in Note 1, Significant Accounting Policies, under the “Fair Value Measurement” heading.
		December 31, 2013
	(in thousands)	Total				Level 1				Level 2			Level 3
	Assets Category
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	15,231			$	15,231			$	—		$	—
	Equity securities:
	U. S.	929				929				—			—
	International	37,904				37,904				—			—
	Fixed income securities:
	Fixed rate bonds (a)	51,066				51,066				—			—
	Other types of investments:
	Mutual funds (b)	3,367				3,367				—			—
	Real estate mutual funds	8,906				8,906				—			—
	Common trusts (c)	10,100				—				6,802			3,298
	Insurance contracts	13,240				—				3,739			9,501
	Hedge funds	2,046				—				—			2,046
	Real estate	376				—				—			376
	Total	$	143,165			$	117,403			$	10,541		$	15,221
		December 31, 2012
	(in thousands)	Total				Level 1				Level 2			Level 3
	Assets Category
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	5,930			$	5,930			$	—		$	—
	Equity securities:
	U. S.	1,015				1,015				—			—
	International	34,197				34,197				—			—
	Fixed income securities:
	Fixed rate bonds (a)	48,450				48,450				—			—
	Other types of investments:
	Mutual funds (b)	8,994				—				8,994			—
	Real estate mutual funds	9,713				9,713				—			—
	Common trusts (c)	2,708				—				—			2,708
	Insurance contracts	12,199				—				3,865			8,334
	Hedge funds	1,311				—				—			1,311
	Real estate	367				—				—			367
	Total	$	124,884			$	99,305			$	12,859		$	12,720
	(a)	This category includes fixed income securities invested primarily in Swiss bonds, foreign bonds denominated in Swiss francs, foreign currency bonds, mortgage notes and pledged letters.
	(b)	This category includes mutual funds balanced between moderate-income generation and moderate capital appreciation with investment allocations of approximately 50% equities and 50% fixed income investments.
	(c)	This category includes common/collective funds with investments in approximately 65% equities and 35% in fixed income investments.
Reconciliation for the Plans Assets Categorized as Level 3	'
	The following table provides a reconciliation from December 31, 2012 to December 31, 2013 for the plans assets categorized as Level 3. No assets were transferred in or out of the Level 3 category during the year ended December 31, 2013.
		Changes within Level 3 Category for
		Year Ended December 31, 2013
	(in thousands)	Common				Insurance				Hedge			Real				Total
		Trust				Contracts				Funds			Estate
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	2,708			$	8,334			$	1,311		$	367			$	12,720
	Actual return on plan assets:
	Relating to assets still held at the reporting date	409				421				82			—				912
	Relating to assets sold during the period	99				—				—			—				99
	Purchases, sales and settlements, net	82				637				596			—				1,315
	Effect of exchange rate changes	—				109				57			9				175
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	3,298			$	9,501			$	2,046		$	376			$	15,221
	The following tables provide a reconciliation from December 31, 2011 to December 31, 2012 for the plans assets categorized as Level 3.  No assets were transferred in or out of the Level 3 category during the year ended December 31, 2012.
		Changes within Level 3 Category for
		Year Ended December 31, 2012
	(in thousands)	Common				Insurance				Hedge			Real				Total
		Trust				Contracts				Funds			Estate
	Balance at December 31, 2011	$	2,083			$	5,820			$	890		$	358			$	9,151
	Actual return on plan assets:
	Relating to assets still held at the reporting date	284				1,700				52			—				2,036
	Relating to assets sold during the period	8				—				6			—				14
	Purchases, sales and settlements, net	333				533				331			—				1,197
	Effect of exchange rate changes	—				281				32			9				322
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	2,708			$	8,334			$	1,311		$	367			$	12,720
Estimated Future Benefit Payments	'
	Estimated Future Benefit Payments
	(in thousands)	Pension				Other
		Benefits				Postemployment
						Benefits
	2014	$	10,595			$	502
	2015	11,697				497
	2016	11,171				487
	2017	12,221				504
	2018	14,437				524
	2019-2022	82,030				2,794

RESTRUCTURING_AND_OTHER_COSTS_

RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER COSTS (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Restructuring Accruals	'
	At December 31, 2013, the Company’s restructuring accruals were as follows:
		Severances
	(in thousands)	2011 and			2012 Plans			2013 Plans			Total
		Prior Plans
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	1,495		$	11,412		$	—		$	12,907
	Provisions and adjustments	—			1,314			8,615			9,929
	Amounts applied	(1,069		)	(9,832		)	(2,615		)	(13,516		)
	Change in estimates	(24		)	(2,014		)	(236		)	(2,274		)
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	402		$	880		$	5,764		$	7,046
		Lease/Contract Terminations
	(in thousands)	2011 and			2012 Plans			2013 Plans			Total
		Prior Plans
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	792		$	682		$	—		$	1,474
	Provisions and adjustments	—			77			1,999			2,076
	Amounts applied	(136		)	(626		)	(1,887		)	(2,649		)
	Change in estimates	$	—		(41		)	(14		)	(55		)
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	656		$	92		$	98		$	846
		Other Restructuring Costs
	(in thousands)	2012 Plans			2013 Plans			Total
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	94		$	—		$	94
	Provisions and adjustments	957			1,383			2,340
	Amounts applied	(994		)	(716		)	(1,710		)
	Change in estimates	1			(9		)	(8		)
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	58		$	658		$	716
Cumulative Amounts for the Provisions and Adjustments and Amounts Applied for All the Plans by Segment	'
	The following table provides the cumulative amounts for the provisions and adjustments and amounts applied for all the plans by segment:
	(in thousands)	December 31, 2012			Provisions and			Amounts			Change in Estimates			December 31, 2013
					Adjustments			Applied
	Dental Consumable and Laboratory Businesses	$	9,132		$	1,236		$	(7,635	)	$	(1,390	)	$	1,343
	Orthodontics/Canada/Mexico/Japan	361			164			(415		)	(4		)	106
	Select Distribution Businesses	222			383			(266		)	—			339
	Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim	4,760			11,869			(9,242		)	(943		)	6,444
	All Other	—			693			(317		)	—			376
	Total	$	14,475		$	14,345		$	(17,875	)	$	(2,337	)	$	8,608

FINANCIAL_INSTRUMENTS_AND_DERI1

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND DERIVATIVES (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value and Consolidated Balance Sheet Location of the Company's Derivatives	'
	The following tables summarize the fair value and location of the Company’s derivatives on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2013 and 2012:
				December 31, 2013
				Prepaid				Other				Accrued			Other
		(in thousands)		Expenses				Noncurrent				Liabilities			Noncurrent
				and Other				Assets, Net							Liabilities
		Designated as Hedges		Current Assets
		Foreign exchange forward contracts		$	1,517			$	255			$	10,280		$	940
		Commodity contracts		—				1				434			1
		Interest rate swaps		789				1,617				466			419
		Cross currency basis swaps		530				—				2,223			16,413
		Total		$	2,836			$	1,873			$	13,403		$	17,773
		Not Designated as Hedges
		Foreign exchange forward contracts		$	3,128			$	—			$	2,328		$	—
		DIO equity option contracts		—				—				—			142
		Interest rate swaps		—				—				85			256
		Cross currency basis swaps		—				—				38,551			1,941
		Total		$	3,128			$	—			$	40,964		$	2,339
			December 31, 2012
			Prepaid				Other				Accrued			Other
	(in thousands)		Expenses				Noncurrent				Liabilities			Noncurrent
			and Other				Assets, Net							Liabilities
	Designated as Hedges		Current Assets
	Foreign exchange forward contracts		$	2,353			$	65			$	2,243		$	844
	Commodity contracts		—				—				95			—
	Interest rate swaps		2,192				2,535				525			948
	Cross currency basis swaps		8,191				—				97,281			1,588
	Total		$	12,736			$	2,600			$	100,144		$	3,380
	Not Designated as Hedges
	Foreign exchange forward contracts		$	6,652			$	—			$	1,353		$	—
	DIO equity option contracts		—				—				—			153
	Interest rate swaps		—				—				114			416
	Cross currency basis swaps		537				—				40,026			55,858
	Total		$	7,189			$	—			$	41,493		$	56,427
Amounts Recorded in AOCI, Net of Tax, Related to Cash Flow Hedging Instruments	'
	Amounts recorded in AOCI related to cash flow hedging instruments at:
		December 31,
	(in thousands, net of tax)	2013				2012
	Beginning balance	$	(17,481	)		$	(12,737	)
	Changes in fair value of derivatives	(6,234		)		105
	Reclassifications to earnings from equity	1,964				(4,849		)
	Total activity	(4,270		)		(4,744		)
	Ending balance	$	(21,751	)		$	(17,481	)
Amounts Recorded in AOCI, Net of Tax, Related to Hedges of Net Investments in Foreign Operations	'
	Amounts recorded in AOCI related to hedges of net investments in foreign operations at:
		December 31,
	(in thousands, net of tax)	2013				2012
	Beginning balance	$	(71,358	)		$	(143,730	)
	Foreign currency translation adjustment	72,159				83,283
	Changes in fair value of:
	Foreign currency debt	14,531				10,097
	Derivative hedge instruments	(25,453		)		(21,008		)
	Total activity	61,237				72,372
	Ending balance	$	(10,121	)		$	(71,358	)
Cash Flow Hedging	'
Summary of Notional Amounts and Fair Value of the Company's Hedges	'
	The following tables summarize the notional amounts and fair value of the Company’s cash flow hedges and non-designated derivatives at December 31, 2013:
	Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts		Notional								Fair Value Net
			Amounts Maturing in the Year								Asset (Liability)
	(in thousands)		2014				2015				December 31, 2013
	Forward sale, 14.9 million Australian dollars		$	12,331			$	1,610			$	757
	Forward purchase, 12.6 million British pounds		(20,916		)		—				193
	Forward sale, 46.5 million Canadian dollars		35,861				8,247				1,045
	Forward purchase, 22.7 million Danish kroner		(4,181		)		—				(4		)
	Forward sale, 212.9 million euros		243,739				47,344				(2,755		)
	Forward sale, 23.3 million Hong Kong dollars		3,006				—				133
	Forward sale, 870.6 million Japanese yen		8,263				—				(626		)
	Forward sale, 180.9 million Mexican pesos		13,837				—				46
	Forward purchase, 12.9 million Norwegian kroner		(2,118		)		—				(2		)
	Forward sale, 0.5 million New Zealand dollars		417				—				2
	Forward sale, 17.0 million Polish zlotys		5,621				—				(73		)
	Forward sale, 3.2 million Singapore dollars		2,515				—				7
	Forward sale, 4.2 billion South Korean won		4,000				—				1
	Forward purchase, 1.3 billion Swedish kronor		(183,015		)		(28,429		)		(1,282		)
	Forward purchase, 48.1 million Swiss francs		(62,278		)		7,225				(1,009		)
	Forward sale, 71.6 million Taiwanese dollars		2,401				—				31
	Total foreign exchange forward contracts		$	59,483			$	35,997			$	(3,536	)
	Interest Rate Swaps		Notional Amounts Maturing in the Year																Fair Value Net
																			Asset (Liability)
	(in thousands)		2014				2015				2016			2017			2018 and Beyond		December 31, 2013
	Euro		$	993			$	993			$	993		$	993		$	248	$	(341	)
	Japanese yen		119,213				—				—			—			—		47
	Swiss francs		—				—				72,829			—			—		(885		)
	Total interest rate swaps		$	120,206			$	993			$	73,822		$	993		$	248	$	(1,179	)
	Commodity Swap Contracts		Notional								Fair Value Net
			Amounts Maturing in the Year								Asset (Liability)
	(in thousands)		2014				2015				December 31, 2013
	Silver swap - U.S. dollar		$	1,446			$	112			$	(343	)
	Platinum swap - U.S. dollar		1,351				101				(91		)
	Total commodity contracts		$	2,797			$	213			$	(434	)
	Cross Currency Basis Swaps		Notional								Fair Value Net Asset (Liability)
			Amounts Maturing in the Year
	(in thousands)		2014				2015				December 31, 2013
	449.8 million euros at 1.45 pay U.S. dollar three-month LIBOR receive three-month Euro Inter-Bank Offered Rate		$	618,449			$	—			$	(33,800	)
	141.4 million Swiss francs at 0.93 pay Swiss francs three-month LIBOR receive U.S. dollar three-month LIBOR		112,045				46,370				(6,692		)
	Total cross currency basis swaps		$	730,494			$	46,370			$	(40,492	)
Fair Value and Consolidated Balance Sheet Location of the Company's Derivatives	'
	The following tables summarize the amount of gains (losses) recorded in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations related to the Company’s cash flow hedges for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012:
	December 31, 2013
	Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging		Gain (Loss)				Affected Line Item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations		Effective Portion
			in AOCI						Reclassified from
	(in thousands)								AOCI into Income
	Interest rate swaps		$	(166	)		Interest expense		$	(3,681	)
	Foreign exchange forward contracts		(6,550		)		Cost of products sold		1,184
	Foreign exchange forward contracts		(294		)		SG&A expenses		(147		)
	Commodity contracts		(1,004		)		Cost of products sold		(288		)
	Total		$	(8,014	)				$	(2,932	)
	Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging		Affected Line Item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations		Ineffective Portion
					Recognized
	(in thousands)				in Income
	Foreign exchange forward contracts		Other expense (income), net		$	666
	Commodity contracts		Interest expense		(56		)
	Total				$	610
	December 31, 2012
	Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging		Gain (Loss)				Affected Line Item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations		Effective Portion
			in AOCI						Reclassified from
	(in thousands)								AOCI into Income
	Interest rate swaps		$	(1,987	)		Interest expense		$	(3,611	)
	Foreign exchange forward contracts		1,027				Cost of products sold		8,029
	Foreign exchange forward contracts		80				SG&A expenses		779
	Commodity contracts		472				Cost of products sold		136
	Total		$	(408	)				$	5,333
	Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging		Affected Line Item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations		Ineffective Portion
					Recognized
	(in thousands)				in Income
	Foreign exchange forward contracts		Other expense (income), net		$	915
	Commodity contracts		Interest expense		(25		)
	Total				$	890
Net Investment Hedging	'
Summary of Notional Amounts and Fair Value of the Company's Hedges	'
	The following tables summarize the notional amounts and fair value of the Company’s hedges of net investments in foreign operations at December 31, 2013:
	Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts		Notional Amounts Maturing in the Year								Fair Value Net
											Asset (Liability)
	(in thousands)		2014				2015				31-Dec-13
	Forward sale, 555.8 million euros		$	705,078			$	59,127			$	(5,112	)
	Total foreign exchange forward contracts		$	705,078			$	59,127			$	(5,112	)
	Cross Currency Basis Swaps		Notional Amounts Maturing in the Year																Fair Value Net
																			Asset (Liability)
	(in thousands)		2014				2015				2016			2017			2018		December 31, 2013
	432.5 million Swiss francs at 0.93 pay Swiss francs three-month LIBOR receive U.S. dollar three-month LIBOR		$	90,084			$	63,417			$	112,045		$	112,045		$	107,003	$	(18,106	)
	Total cross currency basis swaps		$	90,084			$	63,417			$	112,045		$	112,045		$	107,003	$	(18,106	)
Gain (Loss) on Derivatives in the Consolidated Statement of Operatoins	'
	The following tables summarize the amount of gains (losses) recorded in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations related to the Company’s hedges of net investments for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012:
	December 31, 2013
	Derivatives in Net Investment Hedging		Gain (Loss)				Affected Line Item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations		Gain (Loss)
			in AOCI						Recognized
	(in thousands)								in Income
	Cross currency basis swaps		$	(36,035	)		Interest income		$	4,771
							Interest expense		1,432
	Foreign exchange forward contracts		(5,419		)		Other expense (income), net		284
	Total		$	(41,454	)				$	6,487
	December 31, 2012
	Derivatives in Net Investment Hedging		Gain (Loss)				Affected Line Item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations		Gain (Loss)
			in AOCI						Recognized
	(in thousands)								in Income
	Cross currency basis swaps		$	(34,216	)		Interest income		$	4,264
							Interest expense		(1,885		)
	Total		$	(34,216	)				$	2,379
Fair Value Hedging	'
Summary of Notional Amounts and Fair Value of the Company's Hedges	'
	The following tables summarize the notional amounts and fair value of the Company’s fair value hedges at December 31, 2013:
														Fair Value Net
	Interest Rate Swaps		Notional Amounts Maturing in the Year											Asset (Liability)
	(in thousands)		2014				2015				2016			December 31, 2013
	U.S. dollar		$	45,000			$	60,000			$	45,000		$	2,359
	Total interest rate swaps		$	45,000			$	60,000			$	45,000		$	2,359
Gain (Loss) on Derivatives in the Consolidated Statement of Operatoins	'
	The following tables summarize the amount of gains (losses) recorded in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations related to the Company’s hedges of fair value for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012:
	Derivatives in Fair Value Hedging				Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income
			Affected Line Item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations
	(in thousands)				2013				2012
	Interest rate swaps		Interest expense		$	320			$	2,284
	Total				$	320			$	2,284
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument	'
Gain (Loss) on Derivatives in the Consolidated Statement of Operatoins	'
	The following table summarizes the amounts of gains (losses) recorded in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations related to the Company’s hedges not designated as hedging for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012:
	Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging				Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income
			Affected Line Item in the Consolidated Statements of Operations
	(in thousands)				2013				2012
	Foreign exchange forward contracts (a)		Other expense (income), net		$	6,733			$	(1,224	)
	DIO equity option contracts		Other expense (income), net		17				272
	Interest rate swaps		Interest expense		6				(155		)
	Cross currency basis swaps (a)		Other expense (income), net		15,483				12,323
	Total				$	22,239			$	11,216

FAIR_VALUE_MEASUREMENT_Tables

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Financial Assets and Liabilities that are Recorded at Fair Value and Classified Based on the Lowest Level of Input	'
	The following tables set forth by level within the fair value hierarchy the Company’s financial assets and liabilities that were accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis at December 31, 2013 and 2012, which are classified as “Cash and cash equivalents,” “Prepaid expenses and other current assets,” “Long-Term investments,” “Other noncurrent assets, net,” “Accrued liabilities,” and “Other noncurrent liabilities” on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.  Financial assets and liabilities that are recorded at fair value as of the balance sheet date are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement.
		December 31, 2013
	(in thousands)	Total			Level 1			Level 2		Level 3
	Assets
	Interest rate swaps	$	2,406		$	—		$	2,406	$	—
	Commodity contracts	1			—			1		—
	Cross currency basis swaps	530			—			530		—
	Foreign exchange forward contracts	4,900			—			4,900		—
	Corporate convertible bonds	70,019			—			—		70,019
	Total assets	$	77,856		$	—		$	7,837	$	70,019
	Liabilities
	Interest rate swaps	$	1,226		$	—		$	1,226	$	—
	Commodity contracts	435			—			435		—
	Cross currency basis swaps	59,128			—			59,128		—
	Foreign exchange forward contracts	13,548			—			13,548		—
	Long-term debt	152,370			—			152,370		—
	DIO equity option contracts	142			—			—		142
	Total liabilities	$	226,849		$	—		$	226,707	$	142
		December 31, 2012
	(in thousands)	Total			Level 1			Level 2		Level 3
	Assets
	Interest rate swaps	$	4,727		$	—		$	4,727	$	—
	Cross currency basis swaps	8,728			—			8,728		—
	Foreign exchange forward contracts	9,070			—			9,070		—
	Corporate convertible bonds	75,143			—			—		75,143
	Total assets	$	97,668		$	—		$	22,525	$	75,143
	Liabilities
	Interest rate swaps	$	2,003		$	—		$	2,003	$	—
	Commodity contracts	95			—			95		—
	Cross currency basis swaps	194,753			—			194,753		—
	Foreign exchange forward contracts	4,440			—			4,440		—
	Long-term debt	154,560			—			154,560		—
	DIO equity option contracts	153			$	—		—		153
	Total liabilities	$	356,004		$	—		$	355,851	$	153
Reconciliation of the Company's Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis Using Unobservable Inputs (Level 3):	'
	The following table presents a reconciliation of the Company’s Level 3 holdings measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs:
		Corporate			DIO Equity
	(in thousands)	Convertible			Options
		Bonds			Contracts
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	75,143		$	(153	)
	Unrealized loss:
	Reported in AOCI	(7,592		)	—
	Unrealized gain:
	Reported in other expense (income), net	—			17
	Effect of exchange rate changes	2,468			(6		)
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	70,019		$	(142	)

COMMITMENTS_AND_CONTINGENCIES_

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Rental commitments	'
	Rental commitments, principally for real estate (exclusive of taxes, insurance and maintenance), automobiles and office equipment are as follows:
	(in thousands)
	2014	$	35,002
	2015	25,679
	2016	20,496
	2017	16,475
	2018	14,350
	2019 and thereafter	20,149
		$	132,151

PREPAIDS_EXPENSES_AND_OTHER_CU2

PREPAIDS EXPENSES AND OTHER CURRENT ASSETS (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Table Text Block]	'
		December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013		2012
	Deferred taxes	$	86,929	$	80,903
	Prepaid expenses	36,129		54,881
	Other current assets	34,429		49,828
	Prepaid expenses and other current assets	$	157,487	$	185,612

Recovered_Sheet1

Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
	Country
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Number of Countries in which Entity Operates	120	'	'	'
Cost of inventories determined by LIFO method	$6,500,000	$6,300,000	'	'
Cost of inventories determined by LIFO method, amount of increase if FIFO method was used	5,900,000	5,900,000	'	'
Foreign currency translation adjustments recorded in AOCI net of tax effects	-88,931,000	-93,775,000	208,009,000	'
Net exchange gains(losses)	-9,000,000	-2,700,000	'	1,700,000
Precious metal content of sales	'	213,731,000	205,131,000	'
R&D costs included in selling, general and administrative expenses	85,100,000	85,400,000	'	66,700,000
Accumulated Translation Adjustment	'	'	'	'
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Foreign currency translation adjustments recorded in AOCI net of tax effects	-72,200,000	-83,300,000	'	'
Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member]	'	'	'	'
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Foreign currency translation adjustments recorded in AOCI net of tax effects	14,500,000	10,100,000	'	'
Precious Metal Content	'	'	'	'
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Precious metal content of sales	179,100,000	213,700,000	205,100,000	'
Dental Products	'	'	'	'
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Percentage of sales, professional dental products	88.00%	89.00%	93.00%	'
Building	'	'	'	'
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Estimated useful life (in years)	'P40Y	'	'	'
Trade Accounts Receivable	'	'	'	'
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Allowance for doubtful accounts	14,200,000	13,600,000	'	'
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Write-offs	2,500,000	3,800,000	'	'
Provision for doubtful accounts	2,900,000	2,400,000	'	'
Notes Receivable	'	'	'	'
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Write-off of Provision for doubtful accounts	400,000	200,000	'	'
Allowance for Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Current	500,000	900,000	'	'
Provision for doubtful accounts	$0	$100,000	'	'
Minimum [Member] | Machinery and equipment	'	'	'	'
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	'4 years	'	'	'
Maximum [Member] | Machinery and equipment	'	'	'	'
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	'15 years	'	'	'

Balances_included_in_AOCI_in_t

Balances included in AOCI in the Consolidated Balance Sheets (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax	$249,900,000	$177,700,000	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Total	($69,062,000)	($144,200,000)	($190,970,000)

Computation_of_Basic_and_Dilut

Computation of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Common Share (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Net Income attributable to Dentsply International	'	'	'	'
Diluted	'	$314,213	'	$244,520
Shares	'	'	'	'
Basic	142,663	141,850	141,386	'
Incremental shares from assumed exercise of dilutive options	2,302	2,095	2,167	'
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent	$313,192	$314,213	$244,520	'
Diluted	144,965	143,945	143,553	'
Earnings per common share	'	'	'	'
Basic	$2.20	$2.22	$1.73	'
Diluted	$2.16	$2.18	$1.70	'

Earnings_per_Common_Share_Addi

Earnings per Common Share - Additional Information (Detail)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]	'	'	'
Antidilutive common stock options not included in the computation of diluted earnings per common share	2.3	4.1	3.2

COMPREHENSIVE_INCOME_Details

COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax	$205,100,000	$185,600,000	$167,500,000
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax	249,900,000	177,700,000	'
Accumulated other comprehensive income(loss) rollforward [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassification, Net of Tax	69,388,000	50,341,000	'
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax	5,750,000	-3,571,000	'
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent	-388,330,000	-360,983,000	-31,256,000
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent	75,138,000	46,770,000	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	-144,200,000	-190,970,000	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	-69,062,000	-144,200,000	-190,970,000
Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member]	'	'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive income(loss) rollforward [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassification, Net of Tax	-31,687,000	-20,903,000	'
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax	1,962,000	-4,849,000	'
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent	-29,725,000	-25,752,000	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	-143,142,000	-117,390,000	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	-172,867,000	-143,142,000	'
Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) [Member]	'	'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive income(loss) rollforward [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassification, Net of Tax	-5,093,000	18,338,000	'
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax	0	0	'
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent	5,093,000	-18,338,000	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	17,822,000	-516,000	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	12,729,000	17,822,000	'
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]	'	'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive income(loss) rollforward [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassification, Net of Tax	19,478,000	-40,474,000	'
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax	3,788,000	1,278,000	'
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent	-23,266,000	39,196,000	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	-73,182,000	-33,986,000	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	-49,916,000	-73,182,000	'
Accumulated Translation Adjustment	'	'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive income(loss) rollforward [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassification, Net of Tax	86,690,000	93,380,000	'
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax	0	0	'
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent	-86,690,000	-93,380,000	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	54,302,000	-39,078,000	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	140,992,000	54,302,000	'
Net Investment Hedging	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax	10,100,000	71,400,000	'
Net Investment Hedging	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax	$108,900,000	$123,400,000	'

COMPREHENSIVE_INCOME_Reclassif

COMPREHENSIVE INCOME Reclassification Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Expense) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]	'	'	'
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	$52,150	$8,920	$11,016
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic	-5,750	3,571	-3,611
Cash Flow Hedging	'	'	'
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]	'	'	'
Effective Portion Reclassified from AOCI into Income	-2,932	5,333	'
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]	'	'	'
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]	'	'	'
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	-5,391	-1,818	-1,693
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	1,603	540	526
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Amortization Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax	141	138	80
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) adjustment from AOCI,Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net Gain (Loss), before Tax	-5,532	-1,956	-1,773
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic	-3,788	-1,278	-1,167
Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member]	'	'	'
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]	'	'	'
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	-2,932	5,333	-3,088
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	970	-484	644
Foreign Exchange Contract | Cost of Sales | Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member] | Cash Flow Hedging	'	'	'
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]	'	'	'
Effective Portion Reclassified from AOCI into Income	'	'	1,503
Foreign Exchange Contract | Selling, General And Administrative Expense | Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member] | Cash Flow Hedging	'	'	'
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]	'	'	'
Effective Portion Reclassified from AOCI into Income	'	'	39
Commodity Contract [Member] | Cost of Sales | Cash Flow Hedging	'	'	'
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]	'	'	'
Effective Portion Reclassified from AOCI into Income	-288	136	'
Commodity Contract [Member] | Cost of Sales | Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member] | Cash Flow Hedging	'	'	'
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]	'	'	'
Effective Portion Reclassified from AOCI into Income	'	'	273
Interest Rate Contract | Interest Rate Contract | Cash Flow Hedging	'	'	'
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]	'	'	'
Effective Portion Reclassified from AOCI into Income	-3,681	-3,611	-4,903
Interest Rate Swap | Interest Rate Contract | Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member] | Cash Flow Hedging	'	'	'
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]	'	'	'
Effective Portion Reclassified from AOCI into Income	($1,962)	$4,849	($2,444)

Business_Acquisitions_Addition

Business Acquisitions - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

4 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2010

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 09, 2010

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Nov. 30, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Aug. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2011

DIO Corporation

Capital in Excess of Par Value

Other Noncurrent Assets

Other Noncurrent Assets

Series of Individually Immaterial Business Acquisitions [Member]

Series of Individually Immaterial Business Acquisitions [Member]

Series of Individually Immaterial Business Acquisitions [Member]

Astra Tech [Member]

Astra Tech [Member]

Astra Tech [Member]

Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim [Member]

Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim [Member]

DIO Corporation

DIO Corporation

Astra Tech [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Business Acquisition, Effective Date of Acquisition

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

31-Aug-11

'

'

Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Changes, Purchase of Interest by Parent

'

$9,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Changes, Additional Interest Issued to Parent

'

5,000,000

'

'

'

3,900,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Acquisition related activity, net of cash acquired

'

66,247,000

4,861,000

1,787,516,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of acquisitions in period

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2

'

1

'

'

'

'

'

Business Acquisition, Transaction Costs

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

62,300,000

'

7,400,000

'

'

'

'

'

Percentage of interests acquired, common shares

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

100.00%

'

'

'

'

Acquisition activity

'

52,899,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

9,901,000

'

Net sales

'

2,950,770,000

2,928,429,000

2,537,718,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

207,100,000

Operating loss

'

419,166,000

381,939,000

300,728,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

18,500,000

Goodwill increase

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

52,900,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

Business acquisitions related costs

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

31,900,000

'

'

'

Initial ownership interest

'

'

'

'

17.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Purchase of convertible debt issued by affiliate

49,700,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Available-for-sale Securities, Noncurrent

'

'

'

'

'

'

70,000,000

75,100,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net unrealized holding gains on available-for-sale investments

'

$5,100,000

$18,300,000

$11,500,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

BUSINESS_ACQUISITIONS_AND_INVE2

BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS AND INVESTMENTS IN AFFILIATES Unaudited Financial Information had the Astra Tech Acquisition Occurred (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2011
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Line Items]	'
Net sales	$2,918,347
Net income attributable to DENTSPLY	$250,363
Diluted earnings per common share	$1.74

Net_Sales_Details

Net Sales (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Net sales	$2,950,770	$2,928,429		$2,537,718
Sales Revenue, Segment [Member]	'	'		'
Concentration Risk, Percentage	'	'		11.00%
Operating Segments [Member] | U.S., Germany and Certain Other European Regions Consumable Businesses	'	'		'
Net sales	991,694	993,624		992,406
Operating Segments [Member] | Orthodontics/Canada/Mexico/Japan [Member]	'	'		'
Net sales	307,160	320,614		309,143
Operating Segments [Member] | Select Distribution Businesses [Member]	'	'		'
Net sales	267,949	252,632		253,421
Operating Segments [Member] | Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim [Member]	'	'		'
Net sales	1,388,152	1,365,231		987,778
Operating Segments [Member] | All Other	'	'		'
Net sales	($4,185)	($3,672)	[1]	($5,030)	[1]
[1]	Includes amounts recorded at Corporate headquarters.

Net_Sales_Excluding_Precious_M

Net Sales, Excluding Precious Metal Content (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Statement [Line Items]	'		'		'
Net Sales, excluding precious metal content	$2,771,728		$2,714,698		$2,332,587
Precious metal content of sales	'		213,731		205,131
Net Sales, including precious metal content	2,950,770		2,928,429		2,537,718
Operating Segments [Member]	'		'		'
Statement [Line Items]	'		'		'
Precious metal content of sales	179,042		'		'
Operating Segments [Member] | Dental Consumable and Laboratrory Businesses [Member]	'		'		'
Statement [Line Items]	'		'		'
Net Sales, excluding precious metal content	842,736		816,281		824,341
Net Sales, including precious metal content	991,694		993,624		992,406
Operating Segments [Member] | Orthodontics/Canada/Mexico/Japan [Member]	'		'		'
Statement [Line Items]	'		'		'
Net Sales, excluding precious metal content	278,994		286,680		276,228
Net Sales, including precious metal content	307,160		320,614		309,143
Operating Segments [Member] | Select Distribution Businesses [Member]	'		'		'
Statement [Line Items]	'		'		'
Net Sales, excluding precious metal content	267,300		252,064		252,539
Net Sales, including precious metal content	267,949		252,632		253,421
Operating Segments [Member] | Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim [Member]	'		'		'
Statement [Line Items]	'		'		'
Net Sales, excluding precious metal content	1,386,883		1,363,344		984,509
Net Sales, including precious metal content	1,388,152		1,365,231		987,778
Operating Segments [Member] | All Other	'		'		'
Statement [Line Items]	'		'		'
Net Sales, excluding precious metal content	-4,185	[1]	-3,671	[1]	-5,030	[1]
Net Sales, including precious metal content	($4,185)		($3,672)	[2]	($5,030)	[2]
[1]	Includes amounts recorded at Corporate headquarters
[2]	Includes amounts recorded at Corporate headquarters.

Intersegment_Net_Sales_Details

Intersegment Net Sales (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'		'		'
Intersegment Revenue Eliminations	($565,451)		($540,055)		($543,617)
Total	0		0		0
Dental Consumable and Laboratrory Businesses [Member]	'		'		'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'		'		'
Intersegment net sales	172,827		173,194		167,621
Orthodontics/Canada/Mexico/Japan [Member]	'		'		'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'		'		'
Intersegment net sales	3,913		4,000		4,065
Select Distribution Businesses [Member]	'		'		'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'		'		'
Intersegment net sales	2,129		1,534		1,549
Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim [Member]	'		'		'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'		'		'
Intersegment net sales	143,455		139,460		158,724
All Other	'		'		'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'		'		'
Intersegment net sales	$243,127	[1]	$221,867	[1]	$211,658	[1]
[1]	Includes amounts recorded at Corporate headquarters and one distribution warehouse not managed by named segments.

Depreciation_and_Amortization_

Depreciation and Amortization (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Reconciliation of Depreciation by Segment [Line Items]	'		'		'
Depreciation and amortization	$127,903		$129,199		$85,035
Operating Segments [Member] | Dental Consumable and Laboratrory Businesses [Member]	'		'		'
Reconciliation of Depreciation by Segment [Line Items]	'		'		'
Depreciation and amortization	31,137		33,855		34,575
Operating Segments [Member] | Orthodontics/Canada/Mexico/Japan [Member]	'		'		'
Reconciliation of Depreciation by Segment [Line Items]	'		'		'
Depreciation and amortization	3,716		4,959		4,432
Operating Segments [Member] | Select Distribution Businesses [Member]	'		'		'
Reconciliation of Depreciation by Segment [Line Items]	'		'		'
Depreciation and amortization	931		964		875
Operating Segments [Member] | Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim [Member]	'		'		'
Reconciliation of Depreciation by Segment [Line Items]	'		'		'
Depreciation and amortization	90,175		86,900		42,546
Operating Segments [Member] | All Other	'		'		'
Reconciliation of Depreciation by Segment [Line Items]	'		'		'
Depreciation and amortization	$1,944	[1]	$2,521	[1]	$2,607	[1]
[1]	Includes amounts recorded at Corporate headquarters.

Segment_Operating_Income_Detai

Segment Operating Income (Details) (USD $)

12 Months Ended

4 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Operating Segments, Corporate and Eliminations [Member]

Operating Segments, Corporate and Eliminations [Member]

Operating Segments, Corporate and Eliminations [Member]

Astra Tech [Member]

Astra Tech [Member]

Operating Segments [Member]

Operating Segments [Member]

Operating Segments [Member]

Operating Segments [Member]

Operating Segments [Member]

Operating Segments [Member]

Operating Segments [Member]

Operating Segments [Member]

Operating Segments [Member]

Operating Segments [Member]

Operating Segments [Member]

Operating Segments [Member]

Operating Segments [Member]

Operating Segments [Member]

Operating Segments [Member]

Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim [Member]

Dental Consumable and Laboratrory Businesses [Member]

Dental Consumable and Laboratrory Businesses [Member]

Dental Consumable and Laboratrory Businesses [Member]

Orthodontics/Canada/Mexico/Japan [Member]

Orthodontics/Canada/Mexico/Japan [Member]

Orthodontics/Canada/Mexico/Japan [Member]

Select Distribution Businesses [Member]

Select Distribution Businesses [Member]

Select Distribution Businesses [Member]

Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim [Member]

Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim [Member]

Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim [Member]

All Other

All Other

All Other

Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment operating income

$419,166,000

$381,939,000

$300,728,000

$432,522,000

$407,656,000

$336,593,000

'

$18,500,000

$229,566,000

$223,702,000

$209,353,000

$13,946,000

$14,104,000

$12,998,000

($1,005,000)

($4,191,000)

($1,358,000)

$295,419,000

$292,991,000

$218,396,000

($105,404,000)

[1]

($118,950,000)

[1]

($102,796,000)

[1]

Restructuring and other costs

13,356,000

25,717,000

35,865,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Interest Expense

49,625,000

56,851,000

43,814,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Interest income

-8,123,000

-8,760,000

-8,237,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Other expense (income), net

8,329,000

3,169,000

9,040,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Income before income taxes

369,335,000

330,679,000

256,111,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Business acquisitions related costs

'

'

'

'

'

'

$31,900,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

[1]

Includes results of Corporate headquarters, inter-segment eliminations and one distribution warehouse not managed by named segments. Amount recorded in 2011 includes $31.9 million of Astra Tech acquisition cost

Capital_Expenditures_Details

Capital Expenditures (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Capital expenditures	$100,345		$92,072		$71,186
Dental Consumable and Laboratrory Businesses [Member]	'		'		'
Capital expenditures	21,122		18,957		20,693
Orthodontics/Canada/Mexico/Japan [Member]	'		'		'
Capital expenditures	14,423		9,071		7,494
Select Distribution Businesses [Member]	'		'		'
Capital expenditures	1,377		657		1,123
Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim [Member]	'		'		'
Capital expenditures	58,104		58,372		32,958
All Other	'		'		'
Capital expenditures	$5,319	[1]	$5,015	[1]	$8,918	[1]
[1]	)Includes capital expenditures of Corporate headquarter

Assets_Details

Assets (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'		'
Assets	$5,078,047		$4,972,297
Operating Segments [Member] | Dental Consumable and Laboratrory Businesses [Member]	'		'
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'		'
Assets	961,989		1,007,307
Operating Segments [Member] | Orthodontics/Canada/Mexico/Japan [Member]	'		'
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'		'
Assets	308,393		294,348
Operating Segments [Member] | Select Distribution Businesses [Member]	'		'
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'		'
Assets	166,679		192,684
Operating Segments [Member] | Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim [Member]	'		'
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'		'
Assets	3,450,670		3,195,382
Operating Segments [Member] | All Other	'		'
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'		'
Assets	$190,316	[1]	$282,576	[1]
[1]	)Includes assets of Corporate headquarters, inter-segment eliminations and one distribution warehouse not managed by named segment

Information_about_the_Companys

Information about the Company's Operations in different Geographic Areas (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Net sales	$2,950,770	$2,928,429	$2,537,718
Long-lived assets	637,172	614,705	591,445
United States [Member]	'	'	'
Net sales	1,011,646	993,980	875,471
Long-lived assets	158,673	148,950	137,871
Germany [Member]	'	'	'
Net sales	559,109	546,092	515,819
Long-lived assets	129,685	122,310	118,229
Sweden [Member]	'	'	'
Net sales	57,504	54,507	20,383
Long-lived assets	134,083	133,502	150,167
Other Foreign [Member]	'	'	'
Net sales	1,322,511	1,333,850	1,126,045
Long-lived assets	$214,731	$209,943	$185,178

Schedule_of_Sales_by_Product_C

Schedule of Sales by Product Category (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net sales	$2,950,770	$2,928,429	$2,537,718
Dental consumables products [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net sales	777,935	768,098	766,385
Dental laboratory products [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net sales	472,080	511,850	515,491
Dental speciality products [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net sales	1,347,417	1,313,035	1,087,551
Consumable medical device products [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net sales	$353,338	$335,446	$168,291

Recovered_Sheet2

Segment and Geographic Information - Additional Information (Detail) (Sales Revenue, Segment [Member])	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011
Sales Revenue, Segment [Member]	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'
Concentration Risk, Percentage	11.00%

Other_Expense_Income_Net_Detai

Other Expense (Income), Net (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Derivative, Notional Amount	'	'	$600,000
Total other expense (income), net	8,329,000	3,169,000	9,040,000
Treasury Lock [Member]	'	'	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	'	'	3,800,000
Total Other Expense (Income), Net [Member]	'	'	'
Foreign exchange transaction losses	8,982,000	2,679,000	1,713,000
Other (income) expense, net	-653,000	490,000	7,327,000
Total other expense (income), net	8,329,000	3,169,000	9,040,000
Total Other Expense (Income), Net [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument	'	'	'
Foreign exchange transaction losses	-6,900,000	-1,300,000	'
Total Other Expense (Income), Net [Member] | Interest Rate Swap	'	'	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	'	'	$2,900,000

Inventories_Net_Detail

Inventories, Net (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of Inventory [Line Items]	'	'
Inventory, Finished Goods, Net of Reserves	$285,271	$248,870
Inventory, Work in Process, Net of Reserves	67,718	72,533
Inventory, Raw Materials and Supplies, Net of Reserves	85,570	81,537
Inventory, Net	$438,559	$402,940

Inventories_Net_Additional_Inf

Inventories, Net - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Inventory valuation reserve	$34.20	$32.60

Recovered_Sheet3

Property, Plant and Equipment, Net (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross, Total	$1,442,566	$1,353,990	'
Less: Accumulated depreciation	805,394	739,285	'
Property, plant and equipment, net	637,172	614,705	591,445
Land	'	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross, Total	47,616	45,561	'
Building and building improvements	'	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross, Total	427,826	409,451	'
Machinery and equipment	'	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross, Total	907,541	848,331	'
Construction in progress	'	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross, Total	$59,583	$50,647	'

Recovered_Sheet4

Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Number of reporting units	13	'	'
Cash flows discounted range lower limit	8.40%	'	'
Cash flows discounted range upper limit	11.50%	'	'
Impairments of finite-lived identifiable intangible assets	$2	$5.20	$1.50
Amortization of intangible assets	46.2	49.7	21
Estimated future amortizatiof expense of intangible assets for 2012	47.7	'	'
Estimated future amortizatiof expense of intangible assets for 2013	46.9	'	'
Estimated future amortizatiof expense of intangible assets for 2014	46.3	'	'
Estimated future amortizatiof expense of intangible assets for 2015	45.6	'	'
Estimated future amortizatiof expense of intangible assets for 2016	$44.30	'	'

Net_Carrying_Values_of_Goodwil

Net Carrying Values of Goodwill and Finite-Lived Identifiable intangible Assets (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Goodwill	$2,281,596	$2,210,953
Identifiable definite-lived intangible assets, net	$565,724	$601,022

Reconciliation_of_Changes_in_G

Reconciliation of Changes in Goodwill (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'
Balance, beginning of the year	$2,210,953
Acquisition activity	52,899
Goodwill, Purchase Accounting Adjustments	610
Balance, end of the year	$2,281,596

Goodwill_by_Reportable_Segment

Goodwill by Reportable Segment (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Goodwill	$2,281,596	$2,210,953
Acquisition activity	52,899	'
Goodwill, Other Changes	0	'
Goodwill, Purchase Accounting Adjustments	610	'
Goodwill, Translation Adjustments	17,134	'
Dental Consumable and Laboratrory Businesses [Member]	'	'
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Goodwill	421,282	488,206
Acquisition activity	42,998	'
Goodwill, Other Changes	-111,766	'
Goodwill, Purchase Accounting Adjustments	0	'
Goodwill, Translation Adjustments	1,844	'
Select Distribution Businesses [Member]	'	'
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Goodwill	66,534	92,473
Acquisition activity	0	'
Goodwill, Other Changes	-29,510	'
Goodwill, Purchase Accounting Adjustments	0	'
Goodwill, Translation Adjustments	3,571	'
Orthodontics/Canada/Mexico/Japan [Member]	'	'
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Goodwill	95,169	102,065
Acquisition activity	0	'
Goodwill, Other Changes	-4,365	'
Goodwill, Purchase Accounting Adjustments	0	'
Goodwill, Translation Adjustments	-2,531	'
Implants/Endodontics/Healthcare/Pacific Rim [Member]	'	'
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Goodwill	1,698,611	1,528,209
Acquisition activity	9,901	'
Goodwill, Other Changes	145,641	'
Goodwill, Purchase Accounting Adjustments	610	'
Goodwill, Translation Adjustments	$14,250	'

Identifiable_DefiniteLived_Int

Identifiable Definite-Lived Intangible Assets (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Gross Carrying Amount	$796,827	$785,139
Accumulated Amortization	-231,103	-184,117
Net Carrying Amount	565,724	601,022
Identifiable Intangible Assets Gross	1,026,426	1,014,759
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill)	795,323	830,642
Patents	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Gross Carrying Amount	181,847	179,512
Accumulated Amortization	-91,736	-81,390
Net Carrying Amount	90,111	98,122
Trademarks	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Gross Carrying Amount	85,922	83,073
Accumulated Amortization	-35,994	-33,129
Net Carrying Amount	49,928	49,944
Licensing Agreements	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Gross Carrying Amount	31,950	30,695
Accumulated Amortization	-20,992	-18,966
Net Carrying Amount	10,958	11,729
Customer Relationships	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Gross Carrying Amount	497,108	491,859
Accumulated Amortization	-82,381	-50,632
Net Carrying Amount	414,727	441,227
Trademarks	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)	$229,599	$229,620

Accrued_Liabilities_Detail

Accrued Liabilities (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Other Liabilities [Line Items]	'	'
Accrued Liabilities, Current, Total	$339,308	$424,336
Accrued Liabilities	'	'
Other Liabilities [Line Items]	'	'
Payroll, commissions, bonuses, other cash compensation and employee benefits	101,274	96,206
General insurance	12,178	12,204
Sales and marketing programs	38,514	32,742
Professional and legal costs	14,855	12,202
Restructuring costs	8,608	14,452
Warranty liabilities	3,608	3,693
Deferred income	4,922	5,514
Accrued vacation and holidays	29,944	29,804
Third party royalties	11,494	11,288
Current portion of derivatives	54,367	144,195
Other	$59,544	$62,036

Financing_Arrangements_Additio

Financing Arrangements- Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Long-term Debt, Current Maturities	$204,656,000	$250,878,000
Short-term debt, average outstanding amount	318,817,000	248,318,000
Short term debt, weighted average interest rates	1.60%	0.60%
Total unused lines of credit	469,700,000	'
Floating rate senior term loan	1,370,834,000	1,472,913,000
Private Placement [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Long-term Debt, Current Maturities	75,000,000	'
Term Loan Agreement	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Annual Principal Payment	8,800,000	'
Debt, fixed rate	1.40%	0.00%
Floating rate senior term loan	175,000,000	0
Tranche A | Unsecured Senior Notes	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt instrument issued	250,000,000	'
Tranche B | Unsecured Senior Notes	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt instrument issued	300,000,000	'
Tranche C | Unsecured Senior Notes	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt instrument issued	450,000,000	'
Commercial Paper [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Credit facilities, maximum borrowing capacity	500,000,000	'
Short-term debt	101,900,000	45,000,000
Short-term debt, average outstanding amount	'	98,700,000
Revolving Credit Facilities	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Short-term debt	$500,000,000	'

LongTerm_Borrowings_Detail

Long-Term Borrowings (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Long-term debt	$1,370,834,000	$1,472,913,000
Less: Current portion (included in notes payable and current portion of long-term debt)	204,656,000	250,878,000
Long-term portion	1,166,178,000	1,222,035,000
U.S. Dollar Denominated Due August 2016	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Fixed Interest, Percentage Rate	'	2.80%
Fixed rate senior notes $450 million due August 2021	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Long-term debt	448,809,000	448,653,000
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Fixed Interest, Percentage Rate	4.20%	4.20%
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Long-term debt	500,000,000	'
Number Of Banks	16	'
Floating Rate Senior Notes | U.S. Dollar Denominated Due August 2013	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Long-term debt	0	250,000,000
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Fixed Interest, Percentage Rate	0.00%	1.80%
Term Loan Agreement	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Long-term debt	175,000,000	0
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Fixed Interest, Percentage Rate	1.40%	0.00%
Term Loan Agreement | Japanese Yen Denominated Expiring September 2014	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Long-term debt	119,213,000	144,681,000
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Fixed Interest, Percentage Rate	1.00%	1.10%
Term Loan Agreement | Swiss francs denominated expiring September 2016	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Long-term debt	72,829,000	71,027,000
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Fixed Interest, Percentage Rate	1.10%	1.20%
Private Placement [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Long-term debt	250,000,000	'
Private Placement Notes | U.S. Dollar Denominated Expiring March 2016	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Long-term debt	252,370,000	254,560,000
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Fixed Interest, Percentage Rate	4.10%	4.10%
Fixed Rate Senior Notes | U.S. Dollar Denominated Due August 2016	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Long-term debt	299,775,000	299,689,000
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Fixed Interest, Percentage Rate	2.80%	'
Other Borrowings Various Currencies And Rates	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Long-term debt	2,838,000	4,303,000
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Variable Interest, Percentage Rate	1.13%	'
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] | Term Loan Agreement	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Variable Interest, Amount	$175,000,000	'

Contractual_Maturity_Dates_of_

Contractual Maturity Dates of the Various Borrowings (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
2012	$204,656	'
2013	182,896	'
2014	384,992	'
2015	9,064	'
2016	8,920	'
2016 and beyond	580,306	'
Floating rate senior term loan	$1,370,834	$1,472,913

FINANCING_ARRANGEMENTS_ShortTe

FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS Short-Term Borrowings (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Short-term Debt [Line Items]	'	'
Debt, Current	$309,862	$298,963
Long-term Debt, Current Maturities	204,656	250,878
Short-term Debt, Maximum Month-end Outstanding Amount	417,065	399,931
Short-term debt, average outstanding amount	318,817	248,318
Short term debt, weighted average interest rates	1.60%	0.60%
Bank Overdrafts [Member]	'	'
Short-term Debt [Line Items]	'	'
Debt, Current	1,429	123
Short-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Fixed Interest Rate	1.00%	'
Commercial Paper [Member]	'	'
Short-term Debt [Line Items]	'	'
Debt, Current	101,900	45,000
Short-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Fixed Interest Rate	0.30%	0.50%
Short-term debt, average outstanding amount	'	98,700
European Short Term Loan [Member]	'	'
Short-term Debt [Line Items]	'	'
Debt, Current	563	1,962
Short-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Fixed Interest Rate	1.80%	3.90%
Brazil Short Term Loan [Member]	'	'
Short-term Debt [Line Items]	'	'
Debt, Current	$1,314	$1,000
Short-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Fixed Interest Rate	2.80%	2.00%

Equity_Additional_Information_

Equity - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended						3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013
				Equity Incentive Plan 2010	Equity Incentive Plan 2010	Equity Incentive Plan 2010	Employee Stock Option [Member]	Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]	Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]	Restricted Stock Units	Nonqualified Stock Options
					Employee	Key Employee
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Authorized shares to repurchase	34,000,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Stock repurchased under the repurchase program	2,700,000	1,000,000	2,187,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Stock repurchased under the repurchase program, average price	$43.94	$38.90	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Treasury stock, shares held	20,500,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Treasury stock repurchased	$118,024,000	$38,837,000	$79,500,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Proceeds from exercise of stock option	66,913,000	34,183,000	42,275,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Number of stock option exercised	2,300,000	1,400,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	2,309,000
Tax benefit realized for the options exercised	3,000,000	6,800,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Authorized grants under the plan	'	'	'	13,000,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Percentage threshold of outstanding stock for determining availability of grants under Company Plan	'	'	'	7.00%	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Number of shares available for grant	'	'	'	9,400,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Cap on restricted stock or RSU	'	'	'	'	2,500,000	200,000	'	'	'	'	'
Vesting percentage	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	100.00%	'
Number of unvested stock options	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	2,100,000
Unamortized compensation costs	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	17,700,000	'	10,700,000
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'1 year 2 months	'	'1 year 4 months
Intrinsic value of options exercised	$34,300,000	$21,100,000	$27,000,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Weighted average remaining contractual term of all outstanding options (in years)	'5 years 7 months	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'5 years 7 months
Weighted average remaining contractual term of exercisable options (in years)	'4 years 8 months	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period	'	'	'	'	'	'	'3 years	'3 years	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Period	'	'	'	'	'	'	'10 years	'	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Requisite Service Period	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'3 years	'	'	'

Total_Outstanding_Shares_Detai

Total Outstanding Shares (Detail)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Class of Stock [Line Items]	'	'	'
Beginning Balance	-142,322	-141,632	-141,735
Shares Issued	2,605	1,688	2,084
Repurchase of common stock at cost	-2,700	-1,000	-2,187
Ending Balance	-142,241	-142,322	-141,632
Common Stock	'	'	'
Class of Stock [Line Items]	'	'	'
Beginning Balance	-162,776	-162,776	-162,776
Shares Issued	0	0	0
Repurchase of common stock at cost	0	0	0
Ending Balance	-162,776	-162,776	-162,776
Treasury Stock	'	'	'
Class of Stock [Line Items]	'	'	'
Beginning Balance	-20,454	-21,144	-21,041
Shares Issued	2,605	1,688	2,084
Repurchase of common stock at cost	-2,686	-998	-2,187
Ending Balance	-20,535	-20,454	-21,144

Total_Stock_Based_Compensation

Total Stock Based Compensation Expense and the Tax Related Benefit (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Stock option expense	$10,554	$11,126	$10,369
RSU expense	13,059	9,644	9,243
Total stock based compensation expense	23,613	20,770	19,612
Related deferred income tax benefit	$6,057	$5,775	$5,021

Assumptions_Used_to_Determine_

Assumptions Used to Determine Compensation Cost for the Company's Non-Qualified Stock Options Issued (Detail) (Nonqualified Stock Options, USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Nonqualified Stock Options	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Weighted average fair value per share	$9.30	$8.91	$8.86
Expected dividend yield	0.53%	0.57%	0.55%
Risk-free interest rate	0.87%	0.93%	2.35%
Expected volatility	25.00%	26.00%	24.00%
Expected life (years)	'4 years 11 months 23 days	'5 years 1 month 6 days	'5 years 0 months 26 days

NonQualified_Stock_Option_Tran

Non-Qualified Stock Option Transactions (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'
Outstanding Shares, Exercised	-2,300	-1,400
Outstanding Shares, Cancelled	-31	'
Nonqualified Stock Options	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'
Outstanding Shares, Beginning Balance	9,906	'
Outstanding Shares, Granted	923	'
Outstanding Shares, Exercised	-2,309	'
Outstanding Shares, Forfeited	-194	'
Outstanding Shares, Ending Balance	8,295	'
Outstanding Weighted Average Exercise Price, Beginning Balance	33.18	'
Outstanding Weighted Average Exercise Price, Granted	40.63	'
Outstanding Weighted Average Exercise Price, Exercised	28.98	'
Outstanding Weighted Average Exercise Price, Cancelled	42.82	'
Outstanding Weighted Average Exercise Price, Forfeited	38.89	'
Outstanding Weighted Average Exercise Price, Ending Balance	35.04	'
Outstanding Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Balance at Year End	111,450	69,079
Exercisable Shares at Year End	6,225	7,599
Exercisable Weighted Average Exercise Price at Year-End	33.67	31.79
Exercisable Aggregate Intrinsic Value at Year End	92,200	64,819

Information_About_NonQualified

Information About Non-Qualified Stock Options Outstanding (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'
Outstanding Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (in years)	'5 years 7 months	'
Nonqualified Stock Options	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'
Number Outstanding at Year-End	8,295	9,906
Outstanding Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (in years)	'5 years 7 months	'
Outstanding Weighted Price Average Exercise at Year-End	$35.04	$33.18
Number Exercisable at Year-End	6,225	7,599
Exercisable Weighted Average Exercise Price at Year-End	$33.67	$31.79
Nonqualified Stock Options | Range 2	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'
Incremental Changes in Stock Price Lower Range Limit	$20.01	'
Incremental Changes in Stock Price Upper Range Limit	$30	'
Number Outstanding at Year-End	1,938	'
Outstanding Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (in years)	'3 years 7 months	'
Outstanding Weighted Price Average Exercise at Year-End	$26.83	'
Number Exercisable at Year-End	1,938	'
Exercisable Weighted Average Exercise Price at Year-End	$26.83	'
Nonqualified Stock Options | Range 3	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'
Incremental Changes in Stock Price Lower Range Limit	$30.01	'
Incremental Changes in Stock Price Upper Range Limit	$40	'
Number Outstanding at Year-End	4,622	'
Outstanding Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (in years)	'6 years 2 months	'
Outstanding Weighted Price Average Exercise at Year-End	$35.51	'
Number Exercisable at Year-End	3,408	'
Exercisable Weighted Average Exercise Price at Year-End	$34.64	'
Nonqualified Stock Options | Range 4	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'
Incremental Changes in Stock Price Lower Range Limit	$40.01	'
Incremental Changes in Stock Price Upper Range Limit	$50	'
Number Outstanding at Year-End	1,735	'
Outstanding Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (in years)	'6 years 6 months	'
Outstanding Weighted Price Average Exercise at Year-End	$42.98	'
Number Exercisable at Year-End	879	'
Exercisable Weighted Average Exercise Price at Year-End	$44.97	'

Unvested_RSU_Transactions_Deta

Unvested RSU Transactions (Detail) (Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]	'
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	'
Unvested Beginning Balance	$36.34
Granted	$40.92
Vested	$32.80
Forfeited	$38.82
Unvested Ending Balance	$38.81
Number of Shares	'
Unvested at December 31, 2010	1,034
Granted	506
Vested	-248
Forfeited	-161
Unvested at December 31, 2011	1,131

Components_of_Income_Before_In

Components of Income Before Income Taxes From Operations (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Income Taxes [Line Items]	'	'	'
United States	$58,383	$67,668	$7,041
Foreign	310,952	263,011	249,070
Income before income taxes	$369,335	$330,679	$256,111

Components_of_the_Provision_fo

Components of the Provision for Income Taxes from Operations (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Current:	'	'	'
U.S. federal	$10,340	$23,412	$34,870
U.S. state	4,660	2,788	5,151
Foreign	66,306	69,954	59,397
Total	81,306	96,154	99,418
Deferred:	'	'	'
U.S. federal	-28,941	-128,832	-29,664
U.S. state	-1,377	11,730	-4,089
Foreign	1,162	29,868	-54,649
Total	-29,156	-87,234	-88,402
Provision for income taxes	$52,150	$8,920	$11,016

The_Reconciliation_of_the_US_F

The Reconciliation of the U.S. Federal Statutory Tax Rate to the Effective Rate (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Reconciliation of Statutory Federal Tax Rate [Line Items]	'	'	'
Statutory U.S. federal income tax rate	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
State income taxes, net of federal benefit	0.70%	0.70%	0.30%
Federal benefit of R&D and foreign tax credits	-5.90%	-7.20%	-8.60%
Tax effect of international operations	-10.20%	-7.40%	-7.90%
Net effect of tax audit activity	1.90%	-0.60%	2.10%
Tax effect of enacted statutory rate changes	0.10%	-3.70%	0.20%
Federal tax on unremitted earnings of certain foreign subsidiaries	0.00%	0.10%	0.10%
Valuation allowance adjustments	-0.60%	12.00%	-18.10%
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Percent	-1.50%	-26.50%	0.00%
Other	-2.60%	0.00%	0.00%
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation,Other Reconciling Items, Percent	-2.80%	0.30%	1.20%
Effective income tax rate on operations	14.10%	2.70%	4.30%

The_Tax_Effect_of_Significant_

The Tax Effect of Significant Temporary Differences Giving Rise to Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Disclosure The Tax Effect Of Significant Temporary Differences Giving Rise To Deferred Tax Assets And Liabilities [Abstract]	'	'
Commission and bonus accrual	$0	$0
Employee benefit accruals	0	0
Deferred Tax Asset, Foreign outside basis difference	'	189,125
Inventory	0	0
Identifiable intangible assets	374,240	359,303
Insurance premium accruals	0	0
Miscellaneous accruals	0	0
Other	0	0
Unrealized losses included in other comprehensive income	0	0
Property, plant and equipment	49,368	51,020
Product warranty accruals	0	0
R&D and foreign tax credit carryforward	0	0
Restructuring and other cost accruals	0	0
Sales and marketing accrual	0	0
Taxes on unremitted earnings of foreign subsidiaries	2,506	2,556
Tax loss carryforwards and other tax attributes	0	0
Valuation allowance	0	0
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Total	426,114	412,879
Commission and bonus accrual	5,793	2,529
Employee benefit accruals	46,740	44,266
Inventory	21,941	21,173
Identifiable intangible assets	0	0
Insurance premium accruals	4,402	4,381
Miscellaneous accruals	10,089	12,685
Other	35,734	15,844
Unrealized losses included in other comprehensive income	32,908	39,879
Property, plant and equipment	0	0
Product warranty accruals	1,069	1,154
R&D and foreign tax credit carryforward	48,450	0
Restructuring and other cost accruals	956	1,048
Sales and marketing accrual	5,768	4,480
Taxes on unremitted earnings of foreign subsidiaries	0	0
Tax loss carryforwards and other tax attributes	389,614	187,449
Valuation allowance	-228,846	-179,699
Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Total	$374,618	$344,314

The_Deferred_Tax_Assets_and_Li

The Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Schedule of Deferred Income Tax Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]	'	'
Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Change in Amount	$147,100,000	'
Deferred income taxes	238,394,000	232,641,000
Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Change in Amount	81,700,000	'
Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets	'	'
Schedule of Deferred Income Tax Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]	'	'
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	86,929,000	80,903,000
Accrued Income Taxes, Current [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Deferred Income Tax Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]	'	'
Income taxes payable	4,416,000	2,856,000
Other Noncurrent Assets	'	'
Schedule of Deferred Income Tax Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]	'	'
Other noncurrent assets	104,385,000	86,029,000
Deferred Tax Liabilities, net, noncurrent [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Deferred Income Tax Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]	'	'
Deferred income taxes	238,394,000	232,641,000
Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Deferred Income Tax Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]	'	'
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Subject to Expiration	$430,200,000	'

Income_Taxes_Additional_Inform

Income Taxes - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2010
Income Taxes [Line Items]	'	'	'
Tax credit carryforwards	$563,800,000	'	'
Tax loss carryforward	1,000,000,000	'	'
Cumulative earnings of foreign subsidiaries	1,300,000,000	'	'
The total gross unrecognized tax benefits	25,900,000	'	'
Unrecognized tax benefits, if recognized, would affect the effective income tax rate	24,500,000	'	'
The total amount of accrued interest and penalties	7,900,000	6,100,000	'
Recognized income tax expense (benefits), interest and penalties	1,700,000	900,000	900,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards	315,400,000	'	'
Foreign Tax Credits Expiring Future Years	'	'	'
Income Taxes [Line Items]	'	'	'
Tax credit carryforwards	48,500,000	'	'
Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member]	'	'	'
Income Taxes [Line Items]	'	'	'
Tax Credit Carryforward, Expiration Date	31-Dec-33	'	'
Without Expiry Date	'	'	'
Income Taxes [Line Items]	'	'	'
Tax credit carryforwards	456,400,000	'	'
IRS and State Jurisdictions [Member]	'	'	'
Income Taxes [Line Items]	'	'	'
Tax loss carryforward	$17,200,000	'	'

Unrecognized_Tax_Benefits_Deta

Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]	'	'	'
Unrecognized tax benefits at beginning of period	$12,264,000	$14,956,000	$13,143,000
Gross change for prior period positions	2,471,000	-3,029,000	1,425,000
Gross change for current year positions	4,517,000	268,000	640,000
Decrease due to settlements and payments	0	0	0
Decrease due to statute expirations	-1,381,000	0	-123,000
Increase due to effect of foreign currency translation	0	0	0
Decrease due to effect from foreign currency translation	126,000	69,000	-129,000
Unrecognized tax benefits at end of period	17,997,000	12,264,000	14,956,000
Maturing in the Next Twelve Months [Member]	'	'	'
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]	'	'	'
Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Amount of Unrecorded Benefit	$1,100,000	'	'

Benefits_Plan_Additional_Infor

Benefits Plan - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized	$25,800,000	$26,100,000	$17,500,000
Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), Plan	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Amendment to the DENTSPLY to redesign future distribution of allocations of Covered Compensation	3.00%	'	'
Defined Contribution Pension Plan 401k	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Amendment to the DENTSPLY to redesign future distribution of allocations of Covered Compensation	3.00%	'	'
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Contributions to defined contribution benefit plans	12,718,000	12,144,000	'
Minimum target allocation for plan asset of Fixed Income Securities	30.00%	'	'
Maximum target allocation for plan asset of Fixed Income Securities	65.00%	'	'
Defined benefit plan narrative description	'.05	'	'
Defined benefit plans that will be amortized from AOCI into net periodic benefit cost	2,700,000	'	'
Percentage of Total Plan Assets Categorized As Level One	82.00%	'	'
Expected contributions to defined benefit pension plans in 2012	12,100,000	'	'
Foreign Pension Plan, Defined Benefit [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Defined benefit plan narrative description	'.04	'	'
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Contributions to defined contribution benefit plans	283,000	285,000	'
Postretirement Medical Benefits	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Expected contributions to defined benefit pension plans in 2012	$500,000	'	'
Equity Securities | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Minimum target allocation for plan asset of Equity Securites	30.00%	'	'
Maximum target allocation for plan asset of Equity Securities	65.00%	'	'
Real Estate Investment [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Minimum target allocation for plan asset of Equity Securites	0.00%	'	'
Maximum target allocation for plan asset of Equity Securities	15.00%	'	'
Other Investments | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Minimum target allocation for plan asset of Equity Securites	0.00%	'	'
Maximum target allocation for plan asset of Equity Securities	25.00%	'	'

Reconciliations_of_Changes_in_

Reconciliations of Changes in the Defined Benefit and Postretirement Healthcare Plans' Benefit Obligations, Fair Value of Assets and Funded Status (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Change in Plan Assets [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Ending balance	$143,165	$124,884	'
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit	'	'	'
Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	355,766	270,607	'
Service cost	14,863	12,178	10,950
Interest cost	9,901	10,600	9,633
Participant contributions	3,968	3,638	'
Actuarial losses (gains)	-20,727	59,461	'
Amendments	0	-93	'
Acquisitions/Divestitures	30	3,745	'
Effects of exchange rate changes	8,248	8,100	'
Benefits paid	-10,440	-12,700	'
Benefit obligation at end of year	359,416	355,766	270,607
Defined Benefit Plan, Other Changes	-524	540	'
Change in Plan Assets [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Beginning balance	124,884	108,708	'
Actual return on assets	9,658	10,732	'
Effects of exchange rate changes	2,377	2,362	'
Employer contributions	12,718	12,144	'
Participant contributions	3,968	3,638	'
Benefits paid	-10,440	-12,700	'
Ending balance	143,165	124,884	108,708
Funded status at end of year	-216,251	-230,882	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments	-1,669	-310	'
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit	'	'	'
Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	14,218	12,217	'
Service cost	234	195	61
Interest cost	464	490	553
Participant contributions	515	535	'
Actuarial losses (gains)	-2,708	1,601	'
Amendments	11	0	'
Acquisitions/Divestitures	0	0	'
Effects of exchange rate changes	0	0	'
Benefits paid	-798	-820	'
Benefit obligation at end of year	11,936	14,218	12,217
Change in Plan Assets [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Beginning balance	0	0	'
Actual return on assets	0	0	'
Effects of exchange rate changes	0	0	'
Employer contributions	283	285	'
Participant contributions	515	535	'
Benefits paid	-798	-820	'
Ending balance	0	0	0
Funded status at end of year	-11,936	-14,218	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments	$0	$0	'

Pension_Benefits_And_Other_Pos

Pension Benefits And Other Postretirement Benefits Recognized In the Accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Other noncurrent assets	$23	$263
Deferred tax asset	19,618	26,421
Total assets	19,641	26,684
Current liabilities	-5,097	-4,561
Long-term liabilities	-211,177	-226,584
Deferred tax liability	-644	-449
Total liabilities	-216,918	-231,594
Accumulated other comprehensive income	48,957	70,377
Net amount recognized	-148,320	-134,533
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Other noncurrent assets	0	0
Deferred tax asset	605	1,764
Total assets	605	1,764
Current liabilities	-491	-654
Long-term liabilities	-11,445	-13,564
Deferred tax liability	0	0
Total liabilities	-11,936	-14,218
Accumulated other comprehensive income	961	2,805
Net amount recognized	($10,370)	($9,649)

Amounts_Recognized_in_Accumula

Amounts Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit	'	'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Recgonized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'
Net actuarial loss	$70,615	$99,129
Net prior service cost	-2,684	-2,780
Pretax AOCI	67,931	96,349
Less deferred taxes	18,974	25,972
Post tax AOCI	48,957	70,377
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit	'	'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Recgonized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'
Net actuarial loss	1,557	4,569
Net prior service cost	9	0
Pretax AOCI	1,566	4,569
Less deferred taxes	605	1,764
Post tax AOCI	$961	$2,805

Pension_Plans_with_an_Accumula

Pension Plans with an Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Projected benefit obligation	$357,459	$344,653
Accumulated benefit obligation	330,215	315,963
Fair value of plan assets	$141,186	$117,413

Components_of_Net_Periodic_Ben

Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit	'	'	'
Service cost	$14,863	$12,178	$10,950
Interest cost	9,901	10,600	9,633
Expected return on assets	-4,998	-4,727	-5,184
Amortization of prior service	-133	-138	80
Amortization of net loss	5,150	1,995	1,584
Settlement gains	-1,600	-303	4
Net periodic benefit cost	23,183	19,605	17,067
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit	'	'	'
Service cost	234	195	61
Interest cost	464	490	553
Expected return on assets	0	0	0
Amortization of prior service	2	0	0
Amortization of net loss	303	264	189
Settlement gains	0	0	0
Net periodic benefit cost	$1,003	$949	$803

Other_Changes_in_Plan_Assets_a

Other Changes in Plan Assets and Benefit Obligations Recognized in AOCI (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net actuarial (gain) loss	($23,364)	$55,662	$8,352
Net prior service (credit)	-37	-161	-2,845
Amortization	-5,017	-1,857	-1,664
Total recognized in AOCI	-28,418	53,644	3,843
Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and AOCI	-5,235	73,249	20,910
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net actuarial (gain) loss	-2,709	1,601	537
Net prior service (credit)	11	0	0
Amortization	-305	-264	-189
Total recognized in AOCI	-3,003	1,337	348
Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and AOCI	($2,000)	$2,286	$1,151

The_Amounts_in_AOCI_That_are_E

The Amounts in AOCI That are Expected to be Amortized as Net Expense (Income) During Next Fiscal Year (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit	'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Expected Benefit Payments [Line Items]	'
Amount of net prior service cost	($138)
Amount of net loss	2,838
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit	'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Expected Benefit Payments [Line Items]	'
Amount of net prior service cost	2
Amount of net loss	$43

Weighted_Average_Assumptions_U

Weighted Average Assumptions Used to Determine Benfit Obligations (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit	'	'	'
Schedule of Benefit Obligations Weighted Average Assumptions [Line Items]	'	'	'
Discount rate	3.20%	2.80%	4.00%
Rate of compensation increase	2.70%	2.70%	2.80%
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit	'	'	'
Schedule of Benefit Obligations Weighted Average Assumptions [Line Items]	'	'	'
Discount rate	4.80%	3.50%	4.00%
Health care cost trend	8.50%	8.00%	7.50%
Ultimate health care cost trend	5.00%	5.00%	5.00%
defined benefit plan, ultimate health care cost trend rate years reached	'8 years	'7 years	'6 years

Weighted_Average_Assumptions_U1

Weighted Average Assumptions Used to Determine Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit	'	'	'
Schedule of Net Periodic Benefit Costs Weighted Average Assumptions [Line Items]	'	'	'
Discount rate	2.80%	4.00%	4.10%
Expected return on plan assets	4.30%	4.10%	4.80%
Rate of compensation increase	2.70%	2.80%	2.60%
Measurement Date	'12/31/2013	'12/31/2012	'12/31/2011
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit	'	'	'
Schedule of Net Periodic Benefit Costs Weighted Average Assumptions [Line Items]	'	'	'
Discount rate	3.50%	4.00%	5.00%
Health care cost trend	8.50%	8.00%	7.50%
Ultimate health care cost trend	5.00%	5.00%	5.00%
defined benefit plan, ultimate health care cost trend rate years reached	'8 years	'7 years	'6 years
Measurement Date	'12/31/2013	'12/31/2012	'12/31/2011

Effect_of_One_Percentage_Point

Effect of One Percentage Point in Assumed Healthcare Cost Trend Rates (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013
Effect on total of service and interest cost components	$161
Effect on postretirement benefit obligation	2,104
Effect on total of service and interest cost components	-123
Effect on postretirement benefit obligation	($1,656)

Fair_Values_of_Pension_Plan_As

Fair Values of Pension Plan Assets (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2010
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	$143,165		$124,884		'
Cash and Cash Equivalents	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	15,231		5,930		'
Equity Securities | U.S.	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	929		1,015		'
Equity Securities | International	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	37,904		34,197		'
Fixed Income Securities | Fixed Rate Bonds	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	51,066	[1]	48,450	[1]	'
Other Investments | Mutual Funds	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	3,367	[2]	8,994	[2]	'
Other Investments | Real Estate Funds [Member]	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	8,906		9,713		'
Other Investments | Common Collective Trusts	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	10,100	[3]	2,708	[3]	'
Other Investments | Insurance Contracts	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	13,240		12,199		'
Other Investments | Hedge Funds	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	2,046		1,311		'
Other Investments | Real Estate	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	376		367		'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	117,403		99,305		'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Cash and Cash Equivalents	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	15,231		5,930		'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Equity Securities | U.S.	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	929		1,015		'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Equity Securities | International	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	37,904		34,197		'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Fixed Income Securities | Fixed Rate Bonds	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	51,066	[1]	48,450	[1]	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Other Investments | Mutual Funds	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	3,367	[2]	0	[2]	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Other Investments | Real Estate Funds [Member]	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	8,906		9,713		'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Other Investments | Common Collective Trusts	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	0	[3]	0	[3]	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Other Investments | Insurance Contracts	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	0		0		'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Other Investments | Hedge Funds	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	0		0		'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Other Investments | Real Estate	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	0		0		'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	10,541		12,859		'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	0		0		'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Equity Securities | U.S.	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	0		0		'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Equity Securities | International	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	0		0		'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Fixed Income Securities | Fixed Rate Bonds	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	0	[1]	0	[1]	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Other Investments | Mutual Funds	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	0	[2]	8,994	[2]	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Other Investments | Real Estate Funds [Member]	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	0		0		'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Other Investments | Common Collective Trusts	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	6,802	[3]	0	[3]	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Other Investments | Insurance Contracts	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	3,739		3,865		'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Other Investments | Hedge Funds	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	0		0		'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Other Investments | Real Estate	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	0		0		'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	15,221		12,720		9,151
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | Cash and Cash Equivalents	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	0		0		'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | Equity Securities | U.S.	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	0		0		'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | Equity Securities | International	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	0		0		'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | Fixed Income Securities | Fixed Rate Bonds	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	0	[1]	0	[1]	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | Other Investments | Mutual Funds	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	0	[2]	0	[2]	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | Other Investments | Real Estate Funds [Member]	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	0		0		'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | Other Investments | Common Collective Trusts	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	3,298	[3]	2,708	[3]	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | Other Investments | Insurance Contracts	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	9,501		8,334		'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | Other Investments | Hedge Funds	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	2,046		1,311		'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | Other Investments | Real Estate	'		'		'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Plan assets	$376		$367		'
[1]	This category includes fixed income securities invested primarily in Swiss bonds, foreign bonds denominated in Swiss francs, foreign currency bonds, mortgage notes and pledged letters.
[2]	This category includes mutual funds balanced between moderate-income generation and moderate capital appreciation with investment allocations of approximately 50% equities and 50% fixed income investments.
[3]	This category includes common/collective funds with investments in approximately 65% equities and 35% in fixed income investments.

Fair_Values_of_Pension_Plan_As1

Fair Values of Pension Plan Assets (Parenthetical) (Detail)	Dec. 31, 2013
Mutual Funds | Equity	'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'
Percentage of investments	50.00%
Mutual Funds | Fixed Income Investments	'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'
Percentage of investments	50.00%
Common Collective Trusts | Equity	'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'
Percentage of investments	65.00%
Common Collective Trusts | Fixed Income Investments	'
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirment Benefits Changes in Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets [Line Items]	'
Percentage of investments	35.00%

BENEFIT_PLANS_Reconciliation_f

BENEFIT PLANS Reconciliation for the Plans Assets Categorized as Level 3 (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2010
Change in Plan Assets. Level 3 [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Ending balance	$143,165	$124,884	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]	'	'	'
Change in Plan Assets. Level 3 [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Beginning balance	12,720	'	9,151
Relating to assets still held at the reporting date	912	2,036	'
Relating to assets sold during the period	99	14	'
Purchases, sales and settlements, net	1,315	1,197	'
Effects of exchange rate changes	175	322	'
Ending balance	15,221	12,720	9,151
Common Collective Trusts Member | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]	'	'	'
Change in Plan Assets. Level 3 [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Beginning balance	2,708	'	2,083
Relating to assets still held at the reporting date	409	284	'
Relating to assets sold during the period	99	8	'
Purchases, sales and settlements, net	82	333	'
Effects of exchange rate changes	0	0	'
Ending balance	3,298	2,708	2,083
Insurance Contracts Member | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]	'	'	'
Change in Plan Assets. Level 3 [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Beginning balance	8,334	'	5,820
Relating to assets still held at the reporting date	421	1,700	'
Relating to assets sold during the period	0	0	'
Purchases, sales and settlements, net	637	533	'
Effects of exchange rate changes	109	281	'
Ending balance	9,501	8,334	5,820
Hedge Funds [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]	'	'	'
Change in Plan Assets. Level 3 [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Beginning balance	1,311	'	890
Relating to assets still held at the reporting date	82	52	'
Relating to assets sold during the period	0	6	'
Purchases, sales and settlements, net	596	331	'
Effects of exchange rate changes	57	32	'
Ending balance	2,046	1,311	890
Real Estate [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]	'	'	'
Change in Plan Assets. Level 3 [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Beginning balance	367	'	358
Relating to assets still held at the reporting date	0	0	'
Relating to assets sold during the period	0	0	'
Purchases, sales and settlements, net	0	0	'
Effects of exchange rate changes	9	9	'
Ending balance	$376	$367	$358

Estimated_Future_Benefit_Payme

Estimated Future Benefit Payments on Defined Benefit Plan (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'
2012	$10,595
2013	11,697
2014	11,171
2015	12,221
2016	14,437
2017-2019	82,030
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'
2012	502
2013	497
2014	487
2015	504
2016	524
2017-2019	$2,794

Restructuring_Impairments_and_

Restructuring Impairments and Other Costs - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'
Restructuring costs	$12,000,000	$17,800,000	'
Selling, general and administrative expenses	1,144,890,000	1,148,731,000	936,847,000
Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment	2,337,000	'	'
Settlements of legal matters and an impairment of an intangible asset	1,400,000	'	'
Settlements of legal matters and impairment of long-term assets	'	7,900,000	'
Restructuring Orthodontic Plan	'	'	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'
Restructuring costs	'	'	1,700,000
Selling, general and administrative expenses	'	'	3,300,000
Other Restructuring	'	'	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'
Restructuring costs	'	'	1,900,000
Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment	8,000	'	'
Restructuring Prior Year Plans - 2010 and 2009	'	'	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'
Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment	2,300,000	800,000	500,000
Restructuring Charges [Member]	'	'	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'
Impairment of Intangible Assets, Indefinite-lived (Excluding Goodwill)	$2,400,000	$5,200,000	'

Restructuring_Accruals_Detail

Restructuring Accruals (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'
Beginning Balance	$14,475
Provisions and adjustments	14,345
Amounts applied	-17,875
Ending Balance	8,608
Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment	-2,337
Employee Severance [Member]	'
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'
Beginning Balance	12,907
Provisions and adjustments	9,929
Amounts applied	-13,516
Ending Balance	7,046
Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment	-2,274
Employee Severance [Member] | Restructuring Fiscal 2011 And Prior Plans [Member]	'
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'
Beginning Balance	1,495
Provisions and adjustments	0
Amounts applied	-1,069
Ending Balance	402
Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment	-24
Employee Severance [Member] | Restructuring - Fiscal 2012 Plans	'
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'
Beginning Balance	11,412
Provisions and adjustments	1,314
Amounts applied	-9,832
Ending Balance	880
Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment	-2,014
Employee Severance [Member] | Restructuring - Fiscal 2013 Plans	'
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'
Beginning Balance	0
Provisions and adjustments	8,615
Amounts applied	-2,615
Ending Balance	5,764
Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment	-236
Contract Termination	'
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'
Beginning Balance	1,474
Provisions and adjustments	2,076
Amounts applied	-2,649
Ending Balance	846
Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment	-55
Contract Termination | Restructuring Fiscal 2011 And Prior Plans [Member]	'
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'
Beginning Balance	792
Provisions and adjustments	0
Amounts applied	-136
Ending Balance	656
Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment	0
Contract Termination | Restructuring - Fiscal 2012 Plans	'
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'
Beginning Balance	682
Provisions and adjustments	77
Amounts applied	-626
Ending Balance	92
Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment	-41
Contract Termination | Restructuring - Fiscal 2013 Plans	'
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'
Beginning Balance	0
Provisions and adjustments	1,999
Amounts applied	-1,887
Ending Balance	98
Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment	-14
Other Restructuring	'
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'
Beginning Balance	94
Provisions and adjustments	2,340
Amounts applied	-1,710
Ending Balance	716
Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment	-8
Other Restructuring | Restructuring - Fiscal 2012 Plans	'
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'
Beginning Balance	94
Provisions and adjustments	957
Amounts applied	-994
Ending Balance	58
Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment	1
Other Restructuring | Restructuring - Fiscal 2013 Plans	'
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'
Beginning Balance	0
Provisions and adjustments	1,383
Amounts applied	-716
Ending Balance	658
Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment	($9)

Provisions_and_Adjustments_and

Provisions and Adjustments and Amounts Applied for All Plans by Segment (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'
Beginning Balance	$14,475
Provisions and adjustments	14,345
Amounts applied	-17,875
Ending Balance	8,608
Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment	-2,337
U.S., Germany and Certain Other European Regions Consumable Businesses	'
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'
Beginning Balance	9,132
Provisions and adjustments	1,236
Amounts applied	-7,635
Ending Balance	1,343
Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment	-1,390
Orthodontics/Canada/Mexico/Japan [Member]	'
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'
Beginning Balance	361
Provisions and adjustments	164
Amounts applied	-415
Ending Balance	106
Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment	-4
Select Distribution Businesses [Member]	'
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'
Beginning Balance	222
Provisions and adjustments	383
Amounts applied	-266
Ending Balance	339
Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment	0
Canada/ Latin America/ Endodontics/ Orthodontics/ Astra Tech	'
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'
Beginning Balance	4,760
Provisions and adjustments	11,869
Amounts applied	-9,242
Ending Balance	6,444
Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment	-943
All Other	'
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'
Beginning Balance	0
Provisions and adjustments	693
Amounts applied	-317
Ending Balance	376
Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment	$0

Recovered_Sheet5

Financial Instruments and Derivatives - Additional Information (Detail)

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2010

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Apr. 04, 2011

Feb. 28, 2010

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 16, 2013

Jun. 27, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

USD ($)

USD ($)

CHF

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Net Investment Hedging

Net Investment Hedging

Net Investment Hedging

Foreign Exchange Forward

Foreign Exchange Contract

Cross Currency Basis Swaps

Cross Currency Basis Swaps

Net Investment Hedging

Net Investment Hedging

Private Placement Notes

Private Placement Notes

Private Placement Notes

Private Placement Notes

Unsecured Senior Notes

Not Designated as Hedging Instrument

Not Designated as Hedging Instrument

Not Designated as Hedging Instrument

Not Designated as Hedging Instrument

Not Designated as Hedging Instrument

Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]

Japan, Yen

Switzerland, Francs

Switzerland, Francs

Euro Member Countries, Euro

Euro Member Countries, Euro

Total Other Expense (Income), Net [Member]

Total Other Expense (Income), Net [Member]

Total Other Expense (Income), Net [Member]

Maturing in the Next Twelve Months [Member]

Maturing in the Next Twelve Months [Member]

Maturing in the Next Twelve Months [Member]

Maturing In Year Two [Member]

Maturing In Year Two [Member]

Maturing In Year Two [Member]

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Tranche C

Cross Currency Basis Swaps

Currency Swap [Member]

Currency Swap [Member]

Foreign Exchange Contract

Cross Currency Basis Swaps

Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]

Cross Currency Basis Swaps

Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]

Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]

Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]

Not Designated as Hedging Instrument

Not Designated as Hedging Instrument

Not Designated as Hedging Instrument

Foreign Exchange Contract

Cross Currency Basis Swaps

Not Designated as Hedging Instrument

Foreign Exchange Contract

Cross Currency Basis Swaps

Not Designated as Hedging Instrument

Fair Value Hedging

Fair Value Hedging

Fair Value Hedging

Fair Value Hedging

USD ($)

EUR (€)

EUR (€)

EUR (€)

CHF

USD ($)

Interest Rate Swap

CHF

Interest Rate Swap

Foreign Exchange Forward

Net Investment Hedging

Cross Currency Basis Swaps

Currency Swap [Member]

Foreign Exchange Contract

USD ($)

USD ($)

Cross Currency Basis Swaps

USD ($)

USD ($)

Cross Currency Basis Swaps

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

EUR (€)

EUR (€)

EUR (€)

EUR (€)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

Derivative [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, before Tax

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$7,700,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Advances to Affiliate

'

'

241,400,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Gain (Loss) on Foreign Currency Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,200,000

3,700,000

7,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

Terminated Notional Amount of Other Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

347,800,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Derivative, Notional Amount

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

150,000,000

'

'

'

48,000,000

36,000,000

241,400,000

'

'

12,600,000,000

295,500,000

65,000,000

22,000,000

533,800,000

'

'

'

705,078,000

90,084,000

730,494,000

59,127,000

63,417,000

'

Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Effective Portion, Net

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

55,200,000

'

52,700,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Derivative, Term of Contract

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'3 years

'

'5 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.32%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Derivative, maturity date

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

28-Feb-16

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

30-Sep-14

'

30-Sep-16

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Ineffective portion Recognized in Income

'

'

'

610,000

890,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Effective Portion Reclassified from AOCI into Income

'

'

'

-2,932,000

5,333,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Face Amount

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

250,000,000

450,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Derivative, Term of Contract

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'5 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax

'

'

'

'

'

-10,121,000

-71,358,000

-143,730,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax

249,900,000

177,700,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

10,100,000

71,400,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Derivative, Fixed Interest Rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

4.10%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.20%

'

0.70%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Interest Rate Derivatives, at Fair Value, Net

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,400,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Derivative, Higher Remaining Maturity Range

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'18 months

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

5,100,000

'

18,100,000

90,700,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net

($18,106,000)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

($5,112,000)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

($40,492,000)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$46,370,000

Summary_of_Notional_Amounts_an

Summary of Notional Amounts and Fair Value of the Company's Cash Flow Hedges (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	($18,106)
Foreign Exchange Forward	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	-3,536
Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Currency, Australian Dollar	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	757
Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Currency, Canadian Dollar	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	1,045
Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Currency, Euro	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	-2,755
Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Hong Kong, Dollars	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	133
Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Currency, Japanese Yen	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	-626
Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Currency, Mexican Pesos	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	46
Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Currency, Polish Zlotys	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	-73
Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Currency, Singapore Dollar	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	7
Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Currency, South Korean Won	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	1
Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Currency, Swiss Franc	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	-1,009
Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Currency, Taiwanese Dollars	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	31
Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivative Purchased | Currency, British Pound Sterling	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	193
Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivative Purchased | Currency, Danish Krone	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	-4
Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivative Purchased | Currency, Norwegian Kroner	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	-2
Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivative Purchased | New Zealand, Dollars	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	2
Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivative Purchased | Currency, Swedish Kronor	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	-1,282
Interest Rate Swap	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	-1,179
Interest Rate Swap | Currency, Euro	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	-341
Interest Rate Swap | Currency, Japanese Yen	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	47
Interest Rate Swap | Currency, Swiss Franc	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	-885
Interest Rate Swap | Maturing in the Next Twelve Months [Member]	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	120,206
Interest Rate Swap | Maturing In Year Two [Member]	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	993
Interest Rate Swap | Maturing in Year Three [Member]	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	73,822
Interest Rate Swap | Maturing in Year Four [Member]	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	993
Interest Rate Swap | Maturing in Year Five and Thereafter [Member]	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	248
Commodity Contract [Member]	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	-434
Commodity Contract [Member] | Silver Bullion | Swap	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	-343
Commodity Contract [Member] | Platinum Bullion | Swap	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	-91
Commodity Contract [Member] | Maturing In Year Two [Member]	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	213
Commodity Contract [Member] | Maturing In Year Two [Member] | Silver Bullion | Swap	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	112
Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	59,483
Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Currency, Australian Dollar	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Asset, Notional Amount	12,331
Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Currency, Canadian Dollar	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Asset, Notional Amount	35,861
Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Currency, Euro	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Asset, Notional Amount	243,739
Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Hong Kong, Dollars	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Asset, Notional Amount	3,006
Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Currency, Japanese Yen	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Asset, Notional Amount	8,263
Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Currency, Mexican Pesos	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Asset, Notional Amount	13,837
Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Currency, Polish Zlotys	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Asset, Notional Amount	5,621
Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Currency, Singapore Dollar	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Asset, Notional Amount	2,515
Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Currency, South Korean Won	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Asset, Notional Amount	4,000
Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Currency, Swiss Franc	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Liability, Notional Amount	-62,278
Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Currency, Taiwanese Dollars	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Asset, Notional Amount	2,401
Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivative Purchased | Currency, British Pound Sterling	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Liability, Notional Amount	-20,916
Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivative Purchased | Currency, Danish Krone	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Liability, Notional Amount	-4,181
Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivative Purchased | Currency, Norwegian Kroner	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Liability, Notional Amount	-2,118
Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivative Purchased | New Zealand, Dollars	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Asset, Notional Amount	417
Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivative Purchased | Currency, Swedish Kronor	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Liability, Notional Amount	-183,015
Maturing In Year Two [Member] | Foreign Exchange Forward	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	35,997
Maturing In Year Two [Member] | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Euro Member Countries, Euro	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Asset, Notional Amount	47,344
Maturing In Year Two [Member] | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Australia, Dollars	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Asset, Notional Amount	1,610
Maturing In Year Two [Member] | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Canada, Dollars	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Asset, Notional Amount	8,247
Maturing In Year Two [Member] | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Hong Kong, Dollars	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Asset, Notional Amount	0
Maturing In Year Two [Member] | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Japan, Yen	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Asset, Notional Amount	0
Maturing In Year Two [Member] | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Switzerland, Francs	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	7,225
Maturing In Year Two [Member] | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Mexico, Pesos	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Asset, Notional Amount	0
Maturing In Year Two [Member] | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Currency, Polish Zlotys	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Asset, Notional Amount	0
Maturing In Year Two [Member] | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Singapore, Dollars	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Asset, Notional Amount	0
Maturing In Year Two [Member] | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Korea (South), Won	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Asset, Notional Amount	0
Maturing In Year Two [Member] | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivatives Sold | Taiwan, New Dollars	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Asset, Notional Amount	0
Maturing In Year Two [Member] | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivative Purchased | United Kingdom, Pounds	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	0
Maturing In Year Two [Member] | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivative Purchased | Denmark, Kroner	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	0
Maturing In Year Two [Member] | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivative Purchased | New Zealand, Dollars	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Asset, Notional Amount	0
Maturing In Year Two [Member] | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivative Purchased | Norway, Krone	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	0
Maturing In Year Two [Member] | Foreign Exchange Forward | Derivative Purchased | Sweden, Kronor	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Liability, Notional Amount	-28,429
Interest Rate Swap | Maturing in the Next Twelve Months [Member] | Euro Member Countries, Euro	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	993
Interest Rate Swap | Maturing in the Next Twelve Months [Member] | Japan, Yen	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	119,213
Interest Rate Swap | Maturing in the Next Twelve Months [Member] | Switzerland, Francs	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	0
Interest Rate Swap | Maturing In Year Two [Member] | Euro Member Countries, Euro	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	993
Interest Rate Swap | Maturing In Year Two [Member] | Japan, Yen	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	0
Interest Rate Swap | Maturing In Year Two [Member] | Switzerland, Francs	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	0
Interest Rate Swap | Maturing in Year Three [Member] | Euro Member Countries, Euro	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	993
Interest Rate Swap | Maturing in Year Three [Member] | Japan, Yen	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	0
Interest Rate Swap | Maturing in Year Three [Member] | Switzerland, Francs	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	72,829
Interest Rate Swap | Maturing in Year Four [Member] | Euro Member Countries, Euro	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	993
Interest Rate Swap | Maturing in Year Four [Member] | Japan, Yen	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	0
Interest Rate Swap | Maturing in Year Five and Thereafter [Member] | Euro Member Countries, Euro	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	248
Interest Rate Swap | Maturing in Year Five and Thereafter [Member] | Japan, Yen	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	0
Interest Rate Swap | Maturing in Year Five and Thereafter [Member] | Switzerland, Francs	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	0
Maturing in Year Four [Member]	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	0
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Commodity Contract [Member] | Maturing in the Next Twelve Months [Member] | Silver Bullion | Swap	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	1,446
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Commodity Contract [Member] | Maturing in the Next Twelve Months [Member] | Platinum Bullion | Swap	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	1,351
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Commodity Contract [Member] | Maturing In Year Two [Member]	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	2,797
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Commodity Contract [Member] | Maturing In Year Two [Member] | Platinum Bullion | Swap	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	$101

Summary_of_Notional_Amounts_an1

Summary of Notional Amounts and Fair Value of the Company's Cash Flow Hedges (Parenthetical) (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	0.32%
Switzerland, Francs | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Forward Exchange Rate	0.93
Switzerland, Francs | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Currency Swap [Member]	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Underlying Basis	'141.4
Switzerland, Francs | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Forward Exchange Rate	0.93
Switzerland, Francs | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Currency Swap [Member]	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Underlying Basis	'432.5
Euro Member Countries, Euro | Euribor Future | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Currency Swap [Member]	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Forward Exchange Rate	0
Derivative, Underlying Basis	'449.8
Derivative Purchased | Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Currency, British Pound Sterling	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Underlying Basis	'14.9
Derivative Purchased | Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Currency, Danish Krone	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Underlying Basis	'46.5
Derivative Purchased | Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Currency, Norwegian Kroner	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Underlying Basis	'180.9
Derivative Purchased | Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | New Zealand, Dollars	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Underlying Basis	'12.9
Derivative Purchased | Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Currency, Swedish Kronor	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Underlying Basis	'4.2
Derivatives Sold | Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Currency, Australian Dollar	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Underlying Basis	'71.6
Derivatives Sold | Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Currency, Canadian Dollar	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Underlying Basis	'12.6
Derivatives Sold | Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Currency, Euro	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Underlying Basis	'22.7
Derivatives Sold | Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Hong Kong, Dollars	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Underlying Basis	'212.9
Derivatives Sold | Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Currency, Japanese Yen	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Underlying Basis	'23.3
Derivatives Sold | Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Currency, Mexican Pesos	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Underlying Basis	'870.6
Derivatives Sold | Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Currency, Polish Zlotys	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Underlying Basis	'.5
Derivatives Sold | Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Currency, Singapore Dollar	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Underlying Basis	'17.0
Derivatives Sold | Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Currency, South Korean Won	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Underlying Basis	'3.2
Derivatives Sold | Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Currency, Swiss Franc	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Underlying Basis	'1.3
Derivatives Sold | Current year | Foreign Exchange Forward | Currency, Taiwanese Dollars	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Underlying Basis	'48.1
Euro Member Countries, Euro | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Foreign Exchange Forward	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Underlying Basis	'555.8

Fair_Value_of_Cross_Currency_B

Fair Value of Cross Currency Basis Swaps that are Designated as Hedges of Net Investments in Foreign Operations (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	($18,106)
Swiss franc 592.5 million @ $1.17 pay CHF 3mo. LIBOR rec. USD 3mo. LIBOR	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	-18,106
Maturing in the Next Twelve Months [Member] | Swiss franc 592.5 million @ $1.17 pay CHF 3mo. LIBOR rec. USD 3mo. LIBOR	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount	90,084
Maturing in the Next Twelve Months [Member] | Cross Currency Basis Swaps	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount	90,084
Maturing In Year Two [Member] | Swiss franc 592.5 million @ $1.17 pay CHF 3mo. LIBOR rec. USD 3mo. LIBOR	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount	63,417
Maturing In Year Two [Member] | Cross Currency Basis Swaps	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount	63,417
Maturing in Year Three [Member] | Swiss franc 592.5 million @ $1.17 pay CHF 3mo. LIBOR rec. USD 3mo. LIBOR	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount	112,045
Maturing in Year Three [Member] | Cross Currency Basis Swaps	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount	112,045
Maturing in Year Five and Thereafter [Member] | Swiss franc 592.5 million @ $1.17 pay CHF 3mo. LIBOR rec. USD 3mo. LIBOR	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount	107,003
Maturing in Year Five and Thereafter [Member] | Cross Currency Basis Swaps	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount	107,003
Maturing in Year Four [Member] | Swiss franc 592.5 million @ $1.17 pay CHF 3mo. LIBOR rec. USD 3mo. LIBOR	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount	112,045
Maturing in Year Four [Member] | Cross Currency Basis Swaps	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount	112,045
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Cross Currency Basis Swaps	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	-40,492
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Cross Currency Basis Swaps | Euro 449.8 Million 1.45 Pay USD 3 Month LIBOR Rec 3 Month EURIBOR [Domain]	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	-33,800
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Cross Currency Basis Swaps | Swiss Franc pay .93 3 month LIBOR rec USD 3 month LIBOR [Member]	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	-6,692
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Maturing in the Next Twelve Months [Member] | Cross Currency Basis Swaps	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount	730,494
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Maturing in the Next Twelve Months [Member] | Cross Currency Basis Swaps | Euro 449.8 Million 1.45 Pay USD 3 Month LIBOR Rec 3 Month EURIBOR [Domain]	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount	618,449
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Maturing in the Next Twelve Months [Member] | Cross Currency Basis Swaps | Swiss Franc pay .93 3 month LIBOR rec USD 3 month LIBOR [Member]	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount	112,045
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Maturing In Year Two [Member] | Cross Currency Basis Swaps	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	46,370
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Maturing In Year Two [Member] | Cross Currency Basis Swaps | Euro 449.8 Million 1.45 Pay USD 3 Month LIBOR Rec 3 Month EURIBOR [Domain]	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount	0
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Maturing In Year Two [Member] | Cross Currency Basis Swaps | Swiss Franc pay .93 3 month LIBOR rec USD 3 month LIBOR [Member]	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount	$46,370

Fair_Value_and_Location_on_the

Fair Value and Location on the Consolidated Balance Sheets (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Foreign Exchange Forward	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability	$5,100	'
Cross Currency Basis Swaps	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability	18,100	90,700
Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Assets Designated as Hedges	2,836	12,736
Derivative Assets Not Designated as Hedges	3,128	7,189
Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets | Foreign Exchange Forward	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Assets Designated as Hedges	1,517	2,353
Derivative Assets Not Designated as Hedges	3,128	6,652
Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets | DIO Equity Option Contracts	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Assets Not Designated as Hedges	0	0
Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets | Commodity Contract [Member]	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Assets Designated as Hedges	0	0
Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets | Interest Rate Swap	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Assets Designated as Hedges	789	2,192
Derivative Assets Not Designated as Hedges	0	0
Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets | Cross Currency Basis Swaps	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Assets Designated as Hedges	530	8,191
Derivative Assets Not Designated as Hedges	0	537
Other Noncurrent Assets	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Assets Designated as Hedges	1,873	2,600
Derivative Assets Not Designated as Hedges	0	'
Other Noncurrent Assets | Foreign Exchange Forward	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Assets Designated as Hedges	255	65
Derivative Assets Not Designated as Hedges	0	0
Other Noncurrent Assets | DIO Equity Option Contracts	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Assets Not Designated as Hedges	0	0
Other Noncurrent Assets | Commodity Contract [Member]	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Assets Designated as Hedges	1	0
Other Noncurrent Assets | Interest Rate Swap	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Assets Designated as Hedges	1,617	2,535
Derivative Assets Not Designated as Hedges	0	0
Other Noncurrent Assets | Cross Currency Basis Swaps	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Assets Designated as Hedges	0	0
Derivative Assets Not Designated as Hedges	0	0
Accrued Liabilities	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability	13,403	100,144
Derivative Liabilities Not Designated as Hedges	40,964	41,493
Accrued Liabilities | Foreign Exchange Forward	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability	10,280	2,243
Derivative Liabilities Not Designated as Hedges	2,328	1,353
Accrued Liabilities | DIO Equity Option Contracts	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Liabilities Not Designated as Hedges	0	0
Accrued Liabilities | Commodity Contract [Member]	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability	434	95
Accrued Liabilities | Interest Rate Swap	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability	466	525
Derivative Liabilities Not Designated as Hedges	85	114
Accrued Liabilities | Cross Currency Basis Swaps	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability	2,223	97,281
Derivative Liabilities Not Designated as Hedges	38,551	40,026
Other Noncurrent Liabilities	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability	17,773	3,380
Derivative Liabilities Not Designated as Hedges	2,339	56,427
Other Noncurrent Liabilities | Foreign Exchange Forward	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability	940	844
Derivative Liabilities Not Designated as Hedges	0	0
Other Noncurrent Liabilities | DIO Equity Option Contracts	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Liabilities Not Designated as Hedges	142	153
Other Noncurrent Liabilities | Commodity Contract [Member]	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability	1	0
Other Noncurrent Liabilities | Interest Rate Swap	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability	419	948
Derivative Liabilities Not Designated as Hedges	256	416
Other Noncurrent Liabilities | Cross Currency Basis Swaps	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability	16,413	1,588
Derivative Liabilities Not Designated as Hedges	$1,941	$55,858

Impact_of_the_Companys_Cash_Fl

Impact of the Company's Cash Flow Hedges (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Gain (Loss) in AOCI	($41,454)	($34,216)	'
Cash Flow Hedging	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Effective Portion Reclassified from AOCI into Income	-2,932	5,333	'
Gain (Loss) in AOCI	-8,014	-408	'
Ineffective portion Recognized in Income	610	890	'
Cash Flow Hedging | Interest Rate Contract | Interest Rate Contract	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Effective Portion Reclassified from AOCI into Income	-3,681	-3,611	-4,903
Gain (Loss) in AOCI	-166	-1,987	'
Cash Flow Hedging | Foreign Exchange Forward | Cost of Sales	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Effective Portion Reclassified from AOCI into Income	1,184	8,029	'
Gain (Loss) in AOCI	-6,550	1,027	'
Cash Flow Hedging | Foreign Exchange Forward | Selling, General And Administrative Expense	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Effective Portion Reclassified from AOCI into Income	-147	779	'
Gain (Loss) in AOCI	-294	80	'
Cash Flow Hedging | Foreign Exchange Forward | Group 2 | Interest Expense	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Ineffective portion Recognized in Income	666	'	'
Cash Flow Hedging | Commodity Contract [Member] | Interest Expense	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Ineffective portion Recognized in Income	-56	-25	'
Cash Flow Hedging | Commodity Contract [Member] | Cost of Sales	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Effective Portion Reclassified from AOCI into Income	-288	136	'
Gain (Loss) in AOCI	($1,004)	$472	'

Impact_of_the_Companys_Hedges_

Impact of the Company's Hedges of Net Investments (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income	$6,487	$2,379
Gain (Loss) in AOCI	-41,454	-34,216
Net Investment Hedging | Interest Expense	'	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income	'	-1,885
Net Investment Hedging | Group 1 | Interest Income	'	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income	4,771	4,264
Net Investment Hedging | Group 1 | Interest Expense	'	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income	1,432	'
Net Investment Hedging | Cross Currency Interest Rate Swaps | Group 1	'	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Gain (Loss) in AOCI	($36,035)	($34,216)

FINANCIAL_INSTRUMENTS_AND_DERI2

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND DERIVATIVES Impact of the Companybs Fair Value Hedges (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended		3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013
			Cash Flow Hedging	Cash Flow Hedging	Interest Rate Contract	Interest Rate Contract
			Interest Expense	Interest Expense	Cash Flow Hedging	Cash Flow Hedging
					Interest Expense	Interest Expense
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net	$6,487	$2,379	$2,284	$320	$2,284	$320

Impact_of_the_Companys_Hedges_1

Impact of the Company's Hedges Not Designated as Hedging (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended				3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
			Foreign Exchange Forward	Foreign Exchange Forward	DIO Corporation	DIO Corporation	Interest Rate Contract	Interest Rate Contract	Interest Rate Contract	Interest Rate Contract
			Other Expense	Other Expense	Other Expense	Other Expense	Other Expense	Other Expense	Interest Expense	Interest Expense
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging, Gains (Losses)	$22,239	$11,216	$6,733	($1,224)	$272	$17	$12,323	$15,483	$6	($155)

Amounts_recorded_in_AOCI_relat

Amounts recorded in AOCI related to cash flow hedging instruments (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2010
Net Investment Hedging	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Beginning balance	($71,358)	'	($143,730)
Foreign currency translation adjustment	72,159	83,283	'
Changes in fair value of foreign currency debt	14,531	10,097	'
Changes in fair value of derivative hedge instruments	-25,453	-21,008	'
Total activity	61,237	72,372	'
Ending balance	-10,121	-71,358	-143,730
Cash Flow Hedging	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Beginning balance	-17,481	'	-12,737
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Effective Portion, Net	-6,234	105	'
Reclassifications to earnings from equity	1,964	-4,849	'
Total activity	-4,270	-4,744	'
Ending balance	($21,751)	($17,481)	($12,737)

FINANCIAL_INSTRUMENTS_AND_DERI3

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND DERIVATIVES Summary of Notional Amounts and Fair Value of the Company's Fair Value Hedges (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	($18,106)
Interest Rate Contract	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	2,359
Interest Rate Contract | Maturing in the Next Twelve Months [Member]	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	45,000
Interest Rate Contract | Maturing In Year Two [Member]	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	60,000
Interest Rate Contract | Maturing in Year Three [Member]	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	45,000
Us Dollar Denominated [Member] | Interest Rate Contract	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net	2,359
Interest Rate Swap | United States of America, Dollars | Maturing in the Next Twelve Months [Member]	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	45,000
Interest Rate Swap | United States of America, Dollars | Maturing In Year Two [Member]	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	60,000
Interest Rate Swap | United States of America, Dollars | Maturing in Year Three [Member]	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	$45,000

FINANCIAL_INSTRUMENTS_AND_DERI4

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND DERIVATIVES Offsetting Balance Sheets (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Offsetting Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Asset, Not Subject to Master Netting Arrangement	$7,837	$22,525
Derivative Asset	7,837	22,525
Derivative Asset, Securities Purchased under Agreements to Resell, Securities Borrowed, Collateral, Obligation to Return Securities	-7,151	-17,098
Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash	0	0
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral	686	5,427
Foreign Exchange Contract	'	'
Offsetting Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Asset, Not Subject to Master Netting Arrangement	4,900	9,070
Derivative Asset	4,900	9,070
Derivative Asset, Securities Purchased under Agreements to Resell, Securities Borrowed, Collateral, Obligation to Return Securities	-4,641	-6,131
Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash	0	0
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral	259	2,939
Commodity Contract [Member]	'	'
Offsetting Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Asset, Not Subject to Master Netting Arrangement	1	'
Derivative Asset	1	'
Derivative Asset, Securities Purchased under Agreements to Resell, Securities Borrowed, Collateral, Obligation to Return Securities	-1	'
Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash	0	0
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral	0	'
Interest Rate Swap	'	'
Offsetting Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Asset, Not Subject to Master Netting Arrangement	2,406	4,727
Derivative Asset	2,406	4,727
Derivative Asset, Securities Purchased under Agreements to Resell, Securities Borrowed, Collateral, Obligation to Return Securities	-1,979	-3,146
Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash	0	0
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral	427	1,581
Cross Currency Basis Swaps	'	'
Offsetting Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Asset, Not Subject to Master Netting Arrangement	530	8,728
Derivative Asset	530	8,728
Derivative Asset, Securities Purchased under Agreements to Resell, Securities Borrowed, Collateral, Obligation to Return Securities	-530	-7,821
Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash	0	0
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral	$0	$907

FINANCIAL_INSTRUMENTS_AND_DERI5

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND DERIVATIVES Offsetting Balance Sheets Liabilities (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Offsetting Liabilities [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Liability, Not Subject to Master Netting Arrangement	$74,479	$201,444
Derivative Liability	74,479	201,444
Derivative Liability, Securities Sold under Agreements to Resell, Securities Loaned, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Securities	-7,151	-17,098
Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash	0	0
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral	67,328	184,346
Commodity Contract [Member]	'	'
Offsetting Liabilities [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Liability, Not Subject to Master Netting Arrangement	435	95
Derivative Liability	435	95
Derivative Liability, Securities Sold under Agreements to Resell, Securities Loaned, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Securities	-1	0
Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash	0	0
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral	434	95
DIO Equity Option Contracts	'	'
Offsetting Liabilities [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Liability, Not Subject to Master Netting Arrangement	142	153
Derivative Liability	142	153
Derivative Liability, Securities Sold under Agreements to Resell, Securities Loaned, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Securities	0	0
Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash	0	0
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral	142	153
Interest Rate Swap	'	'
Offsetting Liabilities [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Liability, Not Subject to Master Netting Arrangement	1,226	2,003
Derivative Liability	1,226	2,003
Derivative Liability, Securities Sold under Agreements to Resell, Securities Loaned, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Securities	-62	-1,339
Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash	0	0
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral	1,164	664
Cross Currency Basis Swaps	'	'
Offsetting Liabilities [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Liability, Not Subject to Master Netting Arrangement	59,128	194,753
Derivative Liability	59,128	194,753
Derivative Liability, Securities Sold under Agreements to Resell, Securities Loaned, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Securities	-3,621	-13,420
Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash	0	0
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral	55,507	181,333
Foreign Exchange Contract	'	'
Offsetting Liabilities [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Liability, Not Subject to Master Netting Arrangement	13,548	4,440
Derivative Liability	13,548	4,440
Derivative Liability, Securities Sold under Agreements to Resell, Securities Loaned, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Securities	-3,467	-2,339
Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash	0	0
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral	$10,081	$2,101

Fair_Value_Measurement_Additio

Fair Value Measurement - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Corporate Bond Securities

U.S. Dollar Denominated Due August 2016

Fixed rate senior notes $450 million due August 2021

Fixed rate senior notes $450 million due August 2021

Private Placement Notes

Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure

Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure

Carrying (Reported) Amount, Fair Value Disclosure

Carrying (Reported) Amount, Fair Value Disclosure

Tranche C

Tranche B

Tranche A

Fixed Rate Senior Notes

Fixed Rate Senior Notes

Unsecured Senior Notes

Unsecured Senior Notes

Unsecured Senior Notes

U.S. Dollar Denominated Due August 2016

U.S. Dollar Denominated Due August 2016

Fair Value, Concentration of Risk, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long-term debt

$1,370,834,000

$1,472,913,000

'

'

$448,809,000

$448,653,000

'

$1,387,700,000

$1,515,200,000

$1,370,800,000

$1,472,900,000

'

'

'

$299,775,000

$299,689,000

Senior Notes

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$450,000,000

$300,000,000

$250,000,000

'

'

Debt, fixed rate

'

'

'

2.80%

4.20%

4.20%

4.10%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2.80%

'

DIO Corporation's stock volatility factor

'

'

40.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Discount rate

'

'

15.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Financial_Assets_and_Liabiliti

Financial Assets and Liabilities that are Recorded at Fair Value and Classified Based on the Lowest Level of Input (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Assets	$77,856	$97,668
Liabilities	226,849	356,004
Interest Rate Swap	'	'
Assets	2,406	4,727
Liabilities	1,226	2,003
Commodity Contract [Member]	'	'
Assets	1	'
Liabilities	435	95
Cross Currency Interest Rate Swaps	'	'
Assets	530	8,728
Liabilities	59,128	194,753
Foreign Exchange Forward	'	'
Assets	4,900	9,070
Liabilities	13,548	4,440
Long-term Debt	'	'
Liabilities	152,370	154,560
Corporate Bond Securities	'	'
Assets	70,019	75,143
DIO Equity Option Contracts	'	'
Liabilities	142	153
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1	'	'
Assets	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2	'	'
Assets	7,837	22,525
Liabilities	226,707	355,851
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Interest Rate Swap	'	'
Assets	2,406	4,727
Liabilities	1,226	2,003
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Commodity Contract [Member]	'	'
Assets	1	'
Liabilities	435	95
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Cross Currency Interest Rate Swaps	'	'
Assets	530	8,728
Liabilities	59,128	194,753
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Foreign Exchange Forward	'	'
Assets	4,900	9,070
Liabilities	13,548	4,440
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Long-term Debt	'	'
Liabilities	152,370	154,560
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3	'	'
Assets	70,019	75,143
Liabilities	142	153
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | Corporate Bond Securities	'	'
Assets	70,019	75,143
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | DIO Equity Option Contracts	'	'
Liabilities	$142	$153

Reconciliation_Assets_Measured

Reconciliation Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis Using Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Corporate Bond Securities	'	'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]	'	'
Beginning Balance	$75,143	'
Unrealized Loss Reported in AOCI	-7,592	'
Effect of exchange rate changes	2,468	'
Ending Balance	70,019	'
DIO Equity Option Contracts	'	'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliations, Recurring Basis, Liability Value	-142	-153
Unrealized Gain Reported in other expense (income), net	17	'
Effect of exchange rate changes	($6)	'

Recovered_Sheet6

Commitments and Contingencies - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			1 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2010	Jun. 30, 2004	Dec. 31, 2006	Jan. 31, 2014
				San Francisco County, California	Eastern District of Pennsylvania	Subsequent Event [Member]
						Eastern District of Pennsylvania
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Loss Contingency, Trial or Alternative Dispute Resolution	'	'	'	'On JuneB 18, 2004, Marvin Weinstat, DDS and Richard Nathan, DDS filed a class action suit in San Francisco County, California alleging that the Company misrepresented that its CavitronB. ultrasonic scalers are suitable for use in oral surgical procedures.B	'On DecemberB 12, 2006, a Complaint was filed by Carole Hildebrand, DDS and Robert Jaffin, DDS in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania (the Plaintiffs subsequently added Dr. Mitchell Goldman as a named class representative).B B The case was filed by the same law firm that filed the Weinstat case in California.B B The Complaint asserts putative class action claims on behalf of dentists located in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.B	'On January 20, 2014, the Company was served with a qui tam complaint filed by two former and one current employee of the Company under the Federal False Claims Act and equivalent state and city laws. The lawsuit was previously under seal in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania
Operating leases, rent expense, total	$39.70	$42.30	$39	'	'	'
Law suit filling date	'	'	'	'June 18, 2004	'December 12, 2006	'2014-01-20
Name of plaintiff (s)	'	'	'	'Marvin Weinstat, DDS and Richard Nathan, DDS	'Carole Hildebrand, DDS and Robert Jaffin, DDS and Dr. Mitchell Goldman	'Former and Current Employees
Liability for employees under contract, if terminated by the Company without cause	$15.80	'	'	'	'	'

Commitments_and_Contingencies_1

Commitments and Contingencies - Rental commitments (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]	'
2012	$35,002
2013	25,679
2014	20,496
2015	16,475
2016	14,350
2017 and thereafter	20,149
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Total	$132,151

Disclosure_Schedule_II_Valuati1

Disclosure - Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Change in Amount	$147,100	'	'
Allowance for doubtful accounts	'	'	'
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Balance at beginning of period	13,647	14,905	8,820
Additions - (credited) to costs and expenses	2,949	2,409	469
Additions - charged to other accounts	-231	115	7,930
Write-offs net of recoveries	-2,521	-3,798	-1,373
Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Change in Amount	369	16	-941
Balance at end of period	14,213	13,647	14,905
Inventory valuation reserves	'	'	'
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Balance at beginning of period	32,561	35,104	35,469
Additions - (credited) to costs and expenses	4,663	2,500	3,325
Additions - charged to other accounts	-54	-78	697
Write-offs net of recoveries	-2,521	-4,673	-3,924
Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Change in Amount	-410	-292	-463
Balance at end of period	34,239	32,561	35,104
Deferred tax asset valuation allowance	'	'	'
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Balance at beginning of period	179,699	71,758	93,054
Additions - (credited) to costs and expenses	49,251	107,995	-22,400
Additions - charged to other accounts	0	0	2,174
Write-offs net of recoveries	0	0	0
Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Change in Amount	-104	-54	-1,070
Balance at end of period	$228,846	$179,699	$71,758