Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date, which is the cumulative amount paid and (if applicable) the fair value of any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree, adjusted for any amortization recognized prior to the adoption of any changes in generally accepted accounting principles (as applicable) and for any impairment charges, in excess of the fair value of net assets acquired in one or more business combination transactions.

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+ Details

Goodwill by Reportable Segment (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ 2,190,063	$ 1,303,055	$ 1,312,596
U.S., Germany and Certain Other European Regions Consumable Businesses
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]
Goodwill	247,119	249,522
France, U.K., Italy snd Certain Other European Countries, CIS, Middle East, Africa, Pacific Rim Businesses
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]
Goodwill	170,379	167,258
Canada/ Latin America/ Endodontics/ Orthodontics/ Astra Tech
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]
Goodwill	1,178,547	282,321
Dental Laboratory Business/ Implants/ Non Dental
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ 594,018	$ 603,954