This study presents an evaluation of the effectiveness of nonsurgical subgingival scaling and root planing related to initial pocket depth, type of teeth, and individual root surfaces. A total of 110 teeth designated for periodontal surgery in 67 patients with marginal periodontitis were selected and received thorough scaling and root planing with standard rigid Gracey curettes. After a healing period of 4 to 8 weeks, residual calculus was assessed at the time of periodontal surgery following the reflection of mucoperiosteal flap. The results demonstrated a high correlation between the percentage of residual calculus and initial pocket depth. It was further noted that tooth type and involved root surface also influenced the rate of calculus remnant. The results of this study suggest that complete removal of subgingival calculus utilizing conventional instrumentation via closed approach is rare.