Abstract Aim The prevalence of vertical root fractures ( VRF ) ranges from 2% to 20%, and is associated with endodontically‐treated teeth ( ETT ). The aim of the present study was to analyze clinically and radiographically, at different intervals of time, some of the risk factors present in ETT that developed VRF . Methods A classification model according to time measured the follow‐up period of three groups. A match was made for times of occurrence (cases) and follow up (controls). An odds ratio ( OR ) test and a logistic regression model set at 95% confidence interval ( CI ) established the VRF probability when different clinical factors (patient, tooth, and endodontic or restorative treatment) were present. Results The sample was composed of 197 ETT (41 cases and 156 controls). A classification model set the trend, thus defining three groups: group 1 (1‐4 years of follow up): endodontic retreatment ( OR : 8.01, 95% CI : 1.85‐37.90, P =.0014), indirect restoration ( OR : .202, 95% CI : .036‐.979, P =.05); group 2 (5‐8 years of follow up): primary treatment ( OR : .052, 95% CI : .002‐.680, P =.044) and the ‘single tooth’ category ( OR : .042, 95% CI : .002‐.453, P =.02) demonstrated a significant association with VRF ; and group 3 (>9 years of follow up): no association. Conclusion Endodontic retreatment had the highest risk association for VRF after 1‐8 years of follow up. Indirect and individual restorations were not significantly associated with VRF .