EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

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 share amounts)	Net income attributable to DENTSPLY International		Shares	Earnings per common share
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	$	1.70
Year Ended December 31, 2010
Basic	$	265,708	143,980	$	1.85
Incremental shares from assumed exercise of dilutive options	—		2,005
Diluted	$	265,708	145,985	$	1.82
Year Ended December 31, 2009
Basic	$	274,258	148,319	$	1.85
Incremental shares from assumed exercise of dilutive options	—		1,783
Diluted	$	274,258	150,102	$	1.83