Dentsply says Japanese employees, distributors OK

All of Dentsply International's Japan-based associates are safe following the massive earthquake and subsequent tsunami that occurred near Japan's northeastern coast of Honshu on March 11, the company announced.

Dentsply's primary facilities located in Tokyo and Nasu were not in the immediate area of devastation, and did not sustain substantial damage.

Dentsply has several key suppliers in Japan, including two that are located in the affected region. The company has been informed that the employees of these suppliers appear to be safe, and that their facilities did not sustain any serious damage, Dentsply said.

One such key supplier, which is the source of product comprising about 9% of the company's consolidated net sales in 2010, is located in an evacuation zone. Therefore, it is not clear when production will resume and product supply will be available from this supplier's facility, Dentsply said.

"Our Dentsply associates' safety remains our utmost priority," said Bret Wise, Dentsply chairman and CEO, in a press release. "We are currently assessing the impact that this natural disaster will have on our business and working diligently to minimize any disruption to our employees, customers, and business partners. While our global business has started the year strong and we remain on track to meet our targets for 2011, the negative impact of the situation in Japan is difficult to quantify at this early stage. ... We are withdrawing our previously issued earnings guidance for 2011 until more information is available. On behalf of the entire company, I would like to express our deepest condolences to all Japanese citizens as they manage through this tragic event."

Dentsply is preparing a donation through the International Red Cross to help the Japanese people, Wise added.