I think the desired term is "to cut one's teeth on." It refers to how babies' teeth are aided in erupting from the gums by chewing on something tough. "Grinding

I think the desired term is "to cut one's teeth on." It refers to how babies' teeth are aided in erupting from the gums by chewing on something tough. "Grinding one's teeth" is used to indicate being under an unpleasant level of stress.