I am with Scooter. When you can, use the "full grip" side of the wrench for final tightening, and breaking things loose. The ball hex should only be used for unscrewing, or long driving..fingertightening. Of course, if it's situated in a tight spot....and it's the only option...you're going to use the ball hex for everything.

With time, the ball hex will wear out itself, and what you're working on faster than using the full hex. It's no different than a regular hex bolt. If you can use a 6 point socket, do so. The 12 points will wear themselves, and your work out faster than using the full grip. Think of 12 points and hex balls as "convenience tools"...sometimes they're your only option, but most of the time they just make things easier