Depreciation and Amortization (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	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.